By : Ike Philip Abiagom – Newsbreeze
Tension is mounting in Igbuzo Kingdom, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, following a decision by the Obuzor-in-Council to suspend its participation in the traditional governance of the community over what it described as persistent interference by the political class in the affairs of the kingdom.
The development came to light after members of the Obuzor-in-Council reportedly submitted a protest letter to His Royal Majesty,(Obi) Prof. Chelunor Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, expressing dissatisfaction with what they termed the growing influence of politicians in matters relating to the traditional administration of the community.
According to sources within the council, the letter informed the monarch that members of the Obuzor-in-Council would no longer participate in traditional governance activities until their grievances are addressed.
The council specifically accused the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Council, Chief Innocent Ifeanyi Esewezie, the Ugonwa of Igbuzo and a palace chief, of undue interference in the traditional affairs of the kingdom.
Members of the council alleged that such interference has contributed to a series of controversies and divisions within the community, particularly in relation to the affairs of the Igbuzo Youth Council, the activities of the Igbuzo Community Peacekeepers (ICP), and the emergence of what they described as a “strange vigilante group” operating within the community.
The aggrieved traditional council members maintained that the involvement of political office holders in matters traditionally reserved for the kingdom’s leadership structure has created unnecessary tension and weakened established traditional institutions.
They further declared that they would cease all official communication and traditional engagements involving the local government chairman until he tenders a public apology to the Obuzor-in-Council for actions they claimed undermined the authority, dignity, and integrity of the traditional institution.
Observers say the latest development has heightened concerns about the relationship between political authorities and traditional institutions in the community, with many residents calling for dialogue and reconciliation to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official response from the palace or from Chief Esewezie regarding the allegations raised by the Obuzor-in-Council. The palace has also remained silent on the protest letter and the council’s decision to suspend participation in traditional governance activities.
Meanwhile, a respected community stakeholder, Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, has called on all parties involved to embrace peaceful dialogue and pursue a resolution that would preserve the unity, peace, and cultural heritage of Igbuzo Kingdom.
The unfolding situation is being closely monitored by residents and indigenes, many of whom fear that a prolonged disagreement between the traditional institution and political authorities could have far-reaching implications for peace, stability, and governance in the historic kingdom.