The traditional ruler of the Umuona community in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, dethroned by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Igwe Humphrey Ejesieme has said he is innocent of the accusations leveled against him that led to the State Government’s withdrawal of his certificate of recognition.
Igwe Ejesieme disclosed in an exclusive chat with a TNC correspondent in his palace at Umuona.
Igwe Ejesieme was elected the traditional ruler of Umuona in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State in 2013.
He was later presented with a Certificate Of Recognition on the 7th of March, 2014 by the then Governor Peter Obi.
The governor had in June 2023, withdrawn his Certificate of Recognition over allegations of interfering with the town union matters.
But Igwe Ejesieme said trouble started in his kingdom when the leadership of the community’s town union, early in 2023, alleged that he invaded their meeting with thugs who wielded dangerous weapons.
Igwe Ejesieme said the allegations prompted the State government to withdraw his certificate of recognition in a letter sent to him dated 13th June 2023 without giving him a fair hearing.
“When such cases arise, it is only proper that all parties are allowed to speak their minds especially when it borders on allegations. This will also enable the government to know the truth and the most appropriate means to resolve the matter.
“It may also serve as a yardstick for the resolution of similar problems in other communities.
“I sincerely think the government was not fair to me and the Umuona people to have listened to the town union leadership without hearing my own side of the story.
“If the government had given me that opportunity of fair hearing, we may not have arrived at this point.
“Governor Soludo should have given me a fair hearing before wielding the big stick,” he posited.
The monarch explained that within his ten-year reign, he had embarked on massive development of his community and had maintained the peace until the recent negative turn of events.
He said; “Umuona community has been in peace since 2014 when I assumed the throne, after being elected by my people.
“Due to the love I have for them, I have attracted so many developmental projects that have made life more meaningful for my people.
“Today, this whole episode appears to have done more harm to the Umuona community than good.”
