In Ebonyi State, Uchenna Igwe, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, has stirred controversy after allegedly issuing a veiled threat to a traditional ruler, urging him to promote the All Progressives Congress (APC) or face dethronement.
“We are one and we are APC… Go and make sure APC dominates in your community. That’s why the governor will give you the staff of office. If you fail to do what is expected, it will be withdrawn through this office,” Igwe said during the meeting.
Ezeogo Nwoga had secured his position in March after defeating his rival Zachaeus Nwennewor with a decisive 560 votes to 3. His emergence ended over nine years of traditional leadership vacuum in Amana, a community that had lacked a ruler since 2014.
While the exact date of the recorded meeting remains unclear, the clip appears recent and shows the commissioner emphasizing political alignment and cooperation with state and local officials. He urged the traditional ruler to work closely with political stakeholders, including the local government chairman, ward coordinator, and other community leaders, to maintain peace and stability.
“Take the governor and his administration seriously. Cooperate with the chairman, your coordinator, and every stakeholder—men, women, sons, and daughters of Amana. Everyone plays a role in building the community, even those who opposed your emergence,” Igwe stated in the clip.
The commissioner further advised the monarch to practice inclusive leadership by reconciling with opponents and integrating them into his cabinet for broader representation.
Despite the emphasis on unity and community development, the most prominent point in Igwe’s speech remained the expectation that the traditional ruler would use his influence to advance APC interests.
“This is why the governor will soon present you with the official staff of office—because we are one and we are APC,” Igwe reiterated.
In closing, he also urged the monarch to support the leadership of Euphemia Nwali, the Ezza South Local Government chairman, emphasizing that all arms of government and traditional authority must work together.
Interestingly, Commissioner Igwe himself was suspended in December by Governor Francis Nwifuru over alleged misconduct, particularly his failure to address unresolved issues concerning the payment of gratuities to local government retirees.
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