Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has inaugurated a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the protracted dispute surrounding the traditional stool of Awka, known as the “Eze Uzu” throne.
The Commission was formally inaugurated on Tuesday at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Hall at Light House, Awka.
The Commission is chaired by Hon. Justice Paul Obidigwe (Rtd), a former Chief Judge of Anambra State, while other members of the panel include Prof. Kate Omenugha – Secretary, Dr Ben Emeka (Igwe Umueri) – Member, Barr. Nnaemeka Francis Patrick Egonu – Member, and Rev. Fr. Barr. Maurice Izunwa – Member.
Obi Gibson Nwosu, the Eze Uzu II, has been the recognized traditional ruler of Awka for over 21 years and currently has the backing of the state government.
However, on the 15th of November, 2017, Austin Ndigwe was crowned the Eze Uzu III of Awka following a long-drawn process involving the spiritual head and Otochalu-Awka, marking his emergence as a claimant to the traditional stool of the Awka kingdom.
According to the terms of reference for the Commission obtained by The News Chronicle correspondent, the members were charged to determine the remote and immediate causes of the dispute over the traditional stool “Eze Uzu” of Awka, and to ascertain whether Chief Gibson Nwosu, known as “Eze Uzu II” of Awka, was appropriately dethroned.
The Commission is also to determine whether Chief Austin Ndigwe was duly selected and installed as the legitimate traditional ruler of Awka and whether he is legitimately functioning in that capacity, and to make recommendations to the State Government on the necessary steps to bring the dispute to a definitive end.
Addressing members of the Commission during their inauguration, Governor Soludo, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu, charged the Commission to conduct a thorough, impartial, and comprehensive inquiry into the issues that have led to tensions over the revered traditional stool.
“In carrying out its assignment, the Commission is expected to be guided by the provisions of the Traditional Rulers Amended Constitution for Awka Town, 1986, the Constitution of Awka Development Union, and the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Law, 2007,” he said.
The governor emphasized the importance of upholding due process, respect for tradition, and the rule of law in resolving the matter, noting that the peace and unity of Awka remain paramount to his administration.
The Commission is required to conclude its inquiry and submit its report to the Governor on or before March 17, 2026.
