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After a turbulent period marked by disagreements over the selection of a new monarch, peace has returned to the Oba community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The resolution of the crisis has been welcomed as a step toward restoring the community’s unity and traditional order.
The announcement of Sir Augustine Chinedu Emelobe as the monarch-elect of the Oba community was met with immediate criticism from Hon. TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, Anambra State’s Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Matters, who reportedly flagged irregularities in the electoral process.
Organized to find a replacement for the late Igwe PC Ezenwa, the election later came under scrutiny. However, a community leader refuted allegations of irregularities, affirming that due legal processes were followed and dismissing claims that Governor Soludo had opposed the exercise.
Read also: Anambra Insecurity Not As Bad As Opposition Claims – Soludo
On Monday, the disputes were laid to rest following the installation of the new monarch, HRM Engr Sir Augustine Chinedu Emelobe. The ceremony was performed by elders and kingmakers, led by the elder of Urueze, otherwise known as ‘Aka ji Ofo Oba’, and elders of the nine villages that make up the town.
They presented the Igwe-elect with a new Ọfọ Oba (the highest staff of authority and spirituality), symbolizing the community’s trust and confidence in his leadership.
The event, which took place at the ancient shrine of the community called Okuana Oba, was at Urueze, the eldest community of the town.
According to ancient traditions, the crown and ‘ofo’ are given to the king by the eldest community of the town.
After the traditional rites had been performed by the elders, the new King went straight to St Bethel Anglican Church, also at Urueze Oba, and dedicated his crown and leadership of the community to God.
