[BREAKING] ENUGU: Mburubu Elders, Stakeholders Appeal Controversial Judgment, Reaffirm Igwe Dr. Onuokaibe as Legitimate Ruler

The people of Mburubu in Nkanu East local government area of Enugu state under the auspices of Mburubu General Assembly has appealed the Enugu State High Court’s ruling that mandated a new election regarding the traditional leadership dispute in the community.

Speaking to journalists in Enugu on Friday about the court’s verdict, the assembly’s legal counsel, Barr. Chijioke Odueze, described the ruling as both surprising and a blatant injustice against the will of the people.

He expressed astonishment that the court recognised both the 1976 and 2003 constitutions of the community, yet chose to disregard the former in favour of the latter, calling it a travesty of justice. He also revealed that the group has filed for a stay of execution of the judgment while their appeal is pending.

“There were individuals contesting for the traditional leadership of Mburubu, currently held by Chief Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe. The matter was due for judgment on February 12th, when Hon. Justice Egbe ordered a new election based on the 2003 constitution, which is unknown to many,” he explained.

Barr. Odueze confirmed that a notice of appeal has been officially filed, expressing confidence that the appellate court will ensure justice prevails. “We have promptly filed for a stay of execution in accordance with the law, alongside the notice of appeal. We have served all relevant parties involved, including the Attorney General of Enugu State and the Enugu State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Rural Development, who are the 4th and 5th respondents,” he added.

He emphasised that the 1976 constitution remains the only recognised and widely accepted document governing Mburubu’s traditional leadership structure. “This is the same constitution under which the late Igwe, HRH Igwe EMO Ezeh, was elected and enthroned without dispute. It is therefore illogical to impose an unfamiliar document on the community at this juncture.”

He cautioned that any attempt to enforce the judgment before all legal avenues are exhausted would be a direct affront to the customs and traditions of Mburubu. “We are committed to seeing this matter through to a just conclusion, as we believe the appellate court will not allow such injustice to prevail.”

Meanwhile, the Ndị Nze na Ọzọ Mburubu and Ákwá Mburubu, the highest traditional groups in the community, have vehemently condemned the judgment, affirming that the 1976 constitution remains the legally recognised framework for kingship selection. They insisted that it was under this constitution that the late Igwe, HRH Igwe EMO Ezeh, was rightly enthroned.

Reports indicate that the judgment left the community in shock and distress, with many expressing concerns over what they view as an attempt to undermine their longstanding traditions. However, the situation was calmed by their Igwe-elect, Igwe Dr. Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, who assured the people of a just resolution.

Sources suggest that over 80% of community members firmly support Igwe Dr. Onuokaibe, whom they recognise as their rightful traditional ruler. They argue that his emergence aligns with the people’s will and should not be altered by external pressures.

Community leaders and stakeholders have urged the government and relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served by upholding the people’s decision. They stress that any attempt to overturn their choice would not only violate their customs but could also trigger unnecessary unrest.

As the legal battle continues, the people of Mburubu remain steadfast in their support for Igwe Dr. Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, expressing confidence that the appellate court will overturn the judgment and reaffirm his status as their rightful traditional ruler.