Traditional rulers in Imo State numbering over 500 have given reasons why they want HRM, Eze (Dr) Cletus Ilomuanya, Obi of Obinugwu back as Chairman of Ndieze in Imo State. This is even as they pleaded with Governor Hope Uzodinma, to appoint a monarch with vast experience and contacts to assist him re-jig the traditional institution in the State.
The monarchs, who spoke ahead of the dissolution of the Council, during an interactive session with Governor Uzodinma in Owerri, made it clear that Eze Ilomuanya stands out exceptionally and possesses the sterling leadership qualities to restore the waning dignity and sanctity of the traditional institution in the State.
Speaking through Eze Bonny Ikenna Egwuogu, the traditional ruler of Uloano Ndugba in Isu local government area, the monarchs stated that “in the interest of equity, fairness and justice, Eze Ilomuanya should be returned to complete his tenure as ordered by the courts. He pleaded with the governor to accede this request which he insisted, has the support of majority of traditional rulers in the state.He appealed that in alternative, the governor should graciously consider the request of the monarchs and reappoint Eze Ilomuanya as their Chairman to stop further desecration of Imo traditional institution.
According to the monarch, Eze Ilomuanya’s reign which was unlawfully disrupted by former Governor Rochas Okorocha, elevated the status, dignity and social pedigree of Imo monarchs, and made them to be ranked at par with other traditional rulers in the northern and western parts of the country. He said that Eze Ilomuanya is a special brand of monarch with vast contacts and capacity, and adviced the governor to appoint a new Chairman for Ndieze, who has ideas and something meaningful to contribute to his administration. He cautioned against appointing “another sidon dey look Chairman”, who will be a liability to the governor.
Eze Egwuogu further adviced the governor not to allow anybody stampede him into making a wrong and costly appointment over the Chairmanship of Ndieze in Imo, stressing that it is his prerogative to choose whomsoever he feels has the capacity and outreach to assist him to deliver the desired results,”His Excellency must note that not reinstating Eze Ilomuanya tantamount unfortunately endorsing and supporting criminality and impunity perpetrated by former Governor Rochas Okorocha against the traditional institution in Imo State”, Eze Egwuogu said.
