The traditional ruler of Neni in Anaocha local government area of Anambra State, Igwe Damian Ezeani, who was suspended indefinitely by Governor Chukwuma Soludo for conferring a chieftaincy title on the senator representing Anambra South senatorial zone, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, has apologized to the governor.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Town Union Matters, Collins Nwabunwanne had accused Igwe Ezeani of breaching the Code of Conduct for traditional rulers in Anambra State, which stipulates that no traditional ruler can confer chieftaincy title on anyone from outside his domain without obtaining the permission of the traditional ruler of the recipient’s community.
Making a u turn yesterday, Igwe Ezeani regretted his action.
In a recorded apology, the monarch said: ” I am the suspended traditional ruler of Neni. I am a Christian and Knight of St Mulumba of the Catholic Church.
“The reason for my suspension was that I conferred a chieftaincy title without obtaining appropriate clearance from government.
“I want to offer my profound unreserved apology with all sincerity and humility to the governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo.
“I am currently the chairman of Anambra Central Traditional Rulers Forum and if any of my colleagues had committed the same offence, I apologize on his behalf.
“I am also offering this apology on behalf of the entire Neni community and I don’t want this issue to affect the good relationship Neni community has with the state government.
“I am a humble person and we were brought up to apologize to anybody we offend, not to talk of the governor of the state. Please accept my sincere apologies.”
It was also gathered that the traditional ruler had withdrawn the chieftaincy title conferred on Senator Ubah.
Vanguard
