The Opi General Assembly (OGA) has condemned the suspension of the traditional ruler of Ibagwa Ogbazalla Opi Autonomous Community, HRH Igwe William Ezugwu, calling for fair hearing and the reversal of the decision.
In a statement signed by its President General, Kevin Godwin Abonyi, MCArb, the group expressed “deep concern and unequivocal condemnation” over the suspension, which it said took effect on September 24, 2026.
Abonyi said he personally contacted Igwe Ezugwu after the suspension letter began circulating and confirmed from the traditional ruler that the suspension had been issued.
According to him, the traditional ruler was suspended without being issued a query or given an opportunity to respond to the allegations contained in the suspension letter.
The Opi General Assembly described the development as concerning, stressing that traditional institutions play important roles in maintaining peace, unity, cultural identity and community leadership.
The group also raised concerns over the timing of the suspension, noting that it came shortly after opposition political actors visited the traditional ruler’s palace to sympathise with him over a fatal attack allegedly carried out by suspected gunmen.
The OGA, however, cautioned against linking the condolence visits to the suspension, arguing that a bereaved traditional ruler should be free to receive sympathisers regardless of their political affiliations.
The group further described Igwe Ezugwu as a personal friend of the state governor and a traditional ruler who, according to the statement, has contributed to grassroots development in Opi.
“Assuming but not conceding that government’s red eyes emanated from these visits, would a bereaved traditional ruler be choosey on mourning sympathizers to open doors for?” the statement queried.
The Opi General Assembly subsequently appealed to the governor to use his good offices to reverse the suspension, stressing that the matter should be handled in the interest of peace, unity and stability in Ibagwa Ogbazalla Opi and Opi as a whole.
The group called for fair hearing, constructive dialogue and a reconsideration of the decision.
It also urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue, warning that traditional institutions should not become victims of political disagreements.
According to the OGA, traditional palaces should remain open to all sons and daughters of the community, including individuals seeking elective office, irrespective of their political affiliations.
“The unity, peace and dignity of Opi must remain our collective priority,” the group said.
