By Michael Ovat
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has formally presented certificates of recognition to two newly elected traditional rulers, marking the first presentation of his second tenure following a rigorous, due process of law.
The newly recognized traditional rulers are Chief John Nzekwesili Nweke for the Nsugbe community (Anambra East LGA) and Chief Aethelbirth Muoka for the Adazi Nnukwu community (Anaocha LGA).
The event was witnessed by the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, alongside the Presidents-General of both communities and other key stakeholders.
Governor Soludo emphasized that the emergence of the two monarchs followed strict legal protocols, transitioning smoothly from the community level through the local government authorities before receiving final state approval.
Addressing the newly minted leaders, who represent the first traditional rulers to be recognized in his second tenure following twelve in his first, the Governor urged them to act as unifying figures, advised them to serve as impartial fathers to all members of their respective communities, embracing both supporters and critics alike.
Acknowledging historical divisions, the Governor noted that opposition to authority is a long-standing reality, urging the monarchs to make their best efforts to ensure lasting peace within their domains.
Highlighting systemic challenges in grassroots administration, Governor Soludo revealed that the state is currently working on a New Community Administration Law designed to overhaul community governance.
He pointed out the structural flaws in the current system where communities are largely run by voluntary associations and town unions registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission.
Governor Soludo noted that because town unions operate as voluntary associations, some communities grapple with multiple rival factions, fueling endless court cases over leadership and traditional rulership, explaining that unlike federal, state, or local government tiers, community leadership often suffers from factionalism due to this voluntary structure and stressed that the upcoming law will birth structured and unified community governance.
The Governor called on veteran traditional rulers to guide the new entrants, reiterating that permanent peace is a non-negotiable prerequisite for grassroots development.
By adopting a bottom-up approach, Governor Soludo expressed confidence that Anambra communities can be successfully positioned on the global map through organized, cohesive local administration.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Barr. Ifeanyi Ezeaka, remarked that Governor Soludo had presented certificates of return to twelve traditional rulers during his first term, revealing that the traditional rulers passed through a strict selection process before their emergence.
In their separate remarks, the two traditional rulers assured the public of harmonizing their people to enthrone peace in their respective communities
