In a dramatic escalation of a traditional crisis, His Royal Majesty, Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, the Asagba of Asaba, has permanently stripped Ogbueshi Ndubuisi Onwufuju, of his prestigious Alor title and barred him for life from contesting any traditional office, including the Iyase of Asaba stool.
The sanction followed an emergency meeting of the Asagba-in-Council on December 12, 2025, convened after reports that the sacred Ikenga Iyase Ahaba – a symbolic artefact kept at the residence of the late Iyase, Obi P.I.G. Onyeobi in Idumuojei Village, Umuezei Quarters – went missing.
Security intelligence allegedly pointed to Ogbueshi Onwufuju, from Ogbeosowe Village, Ugbomenta Quarters, as the culprit. Reports claimed he, accompanied by armed men, stormed the late Iyase’s home around 2 a.m. and seized the Ikenga.
Acting swiftly, the monarch directed the Asaba Community Vigilante, led by Ogbueshi Nnamdi Chukwuedo, to recover the artefact. The team reportedly traced Onwufuju to his residence, where he was found celebrating with Obi Chiedu Chichi and others.He was arrested and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force’s Area Command for criminal investigation.
The Asagba in council described the act as “abominable” and akin to armed robbery, especially since the formal process for selecting a new Iyase had not commenced.
Initial resolutions of the Asagba in council gave Onwufuju 24 hours to return the Ikenga, perform cleansing rites including slaughtering a ram, and face disqualification from titles.
Complicit persons risked N500,000 fines, while Obi Chiedu Chichi was suspended as Obi Ahaba for one year, with a N2 million fine and two cows upon reinstatement.
A delegation sent to inform Onwufuju reported his refusal to comply, prompting the Asagba to impose lifelong sanctions.
The monarch also urged police to prosecute Onwufuju for theft and illegal firearm possession.
The council emphasised the need for severe deterrents to preserve Asaba’s cultural heritage.
