Delta State Government has voided the suspension of Chief Asika James Onwordi as the Onishe Ezemu of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area, declaring the action by HRM Obi Henry Kikachukwu Afamefune Chukwuka Obi III null and void for flouting due process.
In a statement by the Directorate of Chieftaincy Affairs, the state in a letter signed by the Permanent Secretary, Government House, on the directive of Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, faulted the Obi for suspending the gazetted chief without forwarding the report and minutes of the investigative committee set up by the palace to probe allegations against Chief Onwordi.
“The suspension cannot be upheld because the Directorate of Chieftaincy Affairs was not furnished with the required report and minutes confirming that Chief Onwordi was invited, given fair hearing and found culpable,” the letter stated.
While recognising the traditional ruler’s right to discipline erring chiefs, the government insisted that such actions must follow laid-down procedures, including submission of verifiable evidence to the appropriate state organ.
The Deputy Governor consequently directed that the “status quo ante” be maintained to preserve peace in the ancient kingdom pending proper review of the matter.
The letter reminded the monarch that only the Delta State Executive Council, in conjunction with the State House of Assembly, has the statutory power to suspend or remove gazetted traditional title holders.
The Ubulu-Uku crisis has again spotlighted the delicate balance between traditional authority and state oversight in Delta communities.
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