A prominent voice from Nteje community, Dr. Emmanuel Okafor (Isimu Nsi Gi), has raised strong concerns over ongoing efforts by a few individuals allegedly working to destabilize the town’s traditional institution for personal gain, despite a clear declaration by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, recognizing Igwe Odegbo as the legitimate traditional ruler of Nteje.
Dr. Okafor, in a public statement, accused these unnamed individuals of ignoring the Governor’s unequivocal endorsement of Igwe Odegbo and continuing to push what he described as a “divisive and misleading narrative” that the Ikenga quarter of Nteje is entitled to produce a new Igwe. He said such claims are not only dishonest but represent a potential collective disgrace if allowed to persist.
He also expressed disappointment in the actions of Anambra State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Tonycollins Nwabunwanne, whom he accused of interfering in a matter already before the courts. Dr. Okafor alleged that the commissioner’s recent public comments and writings on the Igweship dispute were aimed at legitimizing those allegedly behind a campaign to impose a new traditional ruler contrary to legal and communal consensus.
“This same Tonycollins Nwabunwanne was once quoted saying the matter should be left for the court to decide,” he said. “Why is he now aligning with those hiding behind a government veil to promote personal interests?”
Dr. Okafor further pointed to past controversies involving the suspended President General of Nteje, stating that the PG failed to read an official government letter at the Nteje Development Union (NDU) meeting held on April 26, 2024. He alleged that the former PG was later sued and had signed an affidavit affirming certain facts that his supporters are now attempting to deny in court.
According to him, the commissioner’s recent interventions seem to be a continuation of a broader agenda to discredit the reigning monarch and destabilize the community. He vowed that such efforts would not succeed.
“As Onye Nteje, my duty is clear — to expose deception, defend the truth, and uphold the dignity of our people,” Dr. Okafor declared.
He called on the entire Nteje community to reject all forms of manipulation and selfish interest, urging them to unite in defense of their truth, identity, and collective future.
“This is no longer about individuals or factions,” he concluded. “This is about Nteje itself. We must rise with courage and uphold what is right.”