The community of Azia in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State is currently embroiled in a contentious dispute over the rightful claimant to the traditional stool. The conflict has polarized the community, with some members opposing the crowning of the monarch-elect, Chief Felix Ifeanyimuo, while others staunchly support his ascension.
The disagreement reached a peak last week when elders opposed to Ifeanyimuo’s rule protested at the Anambra State Government House. They accused the Igwe-elect of holding the community hostage and demanded a fresh election to resolve the impasse.
Chief Ifeanyimuo, addressing the press on Friday, lamented the turmoil caused by three wealthy individuals who, he claims, are disrupting the peace for their gain. He accused the protesting elders of being paid agitators and expressed his frustration over the prolonged conflict that has followed the election held nine years ago, which left him and Prof Titus Eze as double Igwe-elect. Following Prof Eze’s death, Ifeanyimuo was the remaining candidate to be crowned, but the process has been marred by continuous opposition.
The monarch-elect has appealed to the Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, to intervene before the situation escalates into violence. He has also called for a stakeholders’ peace meeting to reconcile differences, particularly with the three individuals he believes are fueling the discord.
This throne tussle in Azia is a reflection of the broader challenges faced by many communities in Nigeria, where the selection of traditional rulers can become a deeply divisive issue, often reflecting underlying political, economic, and social tensions.
Let Zebra News help your business/brand reach a wider audience. Advertise with us today! Contact Our Marketing Team; Tel: 08062622328, 07083662767. Email: zebranewsng@gmail.com
