As the traditional leadership tussle in Nteje community intensifies, a prominent voice within the town, Dr. Emmanuel Okafor, has issued a strong caution against what he calls media propaganda, political meddling, and public disrespect toward members of the *Igwe in Council*.
In a statement titled *“To Those Calling the Nteje Igwe in Council ‘Imposters’: A Sobering Reminder,”* Dr. Okafor raised several probing questions about the legitimacy of recent claims and actions by a faction he believes is working to undermine due process and disrupt peace in the community.
He called attention to the fact that the matter of who the rightful traditional ruler of Nteje is remains before a competent court of law, and therefore urged all stakeholders to allow the judiciary to decide rather than engage in what he described as “town gossip, social media campaigns, and political gatherings.”
“If the issue is in court, why are we still hearing name-calling and public insults?” Okafor queried, noting that such actions could be an attempt to influence public opinion in the face of an unfavorable legal outcome.
He also questioned the timing of an affidavit signed by the suspended President General of Nteje Development Union (NDU), Dr. Nnamdi Ilodiuba, dated January 24, 2025 — weeks after an official letter from the Anambra State Government on December 9, 2024. “Why didn’t he present the government letter earlier?” he asked, suggesting the delay may have been politically motivated.
The statement further criticized the Anambra State Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Tonycollins Nwabunwanne, for his alleged involvement in the matter, despite its pending status in court.
“Is his involvement now because his preferred faction is losing control?” Okafor asked pointedly, emphasizing that a public official should be the first to respect the law and not interfere in community matters already under legal scrutiny.
Referencing the NDU constitution, Okafor challenged those pushing a new leadership agenda to show how their actions align with laid-down succession processes. “Nteje must not be built on political bias, emotions, or backdoor dealings,” he declared.
He called on residents to remain vigilant and allow the judiciary to handle the matter. “Let every affidavit, every government letter, and every decision be tested legally,” he stressed.
Okafor concluded with a spiritual appeal: “This is not just about law. There is also a *spiritual court*, and no manipulation will escape divine justice.”
As the Igweship crisis continues to unsettle the Nteje community, this latest commentary adds to the growing demand for transparency, respect for court proceedings, and protection of traditional institutions from political interference.
The Anambra State Government is yet to respond to the mounting accusations. However, community members and stakeholders are urging for calm and a lawful resolution to the lingering leadership crisis.