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Concerns continue to grow within the Obi Mbieri autonomous community following claims that the suspension of Omume 11 is inconsistent with provisions of the Obi Mbieri Constitution (2020, as amended) and Imo state Law 2016 no. 15 that established Traditional Rulers and Autonomous communities. The development has sparked broader discussions around legality, due process, and accountability within the community’s traditional governance structure.
Eziokwubundu.com confirmed receipt of a suspension letter addressed to the Chairman of Umuomume Village and copied to Omume 11. The letter, which has since circulated on the Umuomume WhatsApp platform, is reported to have emanated from the palace of Ezeukwu I of Obi Mbieri Eze (Elder) Dr. J. N Osuji.
A review of the Obi Mbieri Constitution has raised key procedural questions regarding the validity of the suspension. According to Section 38 of the constitution, the authority to suspend a village head rests with the Eze’s Cabinet. Furthermore, Section 38(4) provides that only the Eze holds the authority to remove or suspend a village head.
The composition of the Eze’s Cabinet is clearly defined under Section 32, which states that it comprises all village heads within the Obi Mbieri autonomous community. Stakeholders have, however, questioned whether this requirement was met, as reports indicate that only a fraction of village heads—estimated at about 30%—were present when the decision was taken.
In addition, the constitution section 32 subsection 3 provides that the Eze serves as the President of the Cabinet and presides over its meetings, with the Traditional Prime Minister acting as deputy. Concerns have been raised over the reported absence of both the Eze (Elder) Dr. J. N Osuji and the Traditional Prime Minister, Chief (Prof.) Kyrian Ndikom, during the deliberations leading to the suspension.
Community members have also pointed to relevant provisions of Imo State law governing traditional institutions and autonomous communities, which require a recognized traditional ruler to reside within their autonomous community, with limited 3 months allowances for absence.
According to Imo State of Nigeria law 2016, Law No. 15 that established Traditional Rulers, Autonomous Communities and other related matters. Section 3 subsection 1 says “ Every Eze in the State shall reside in his Autonomous community”. Subsection 3 of the same section says that “The Eze’s of the autonomous community in Imo state can only stay outside the autonomous community for a maximum of 3 months. The Ezeukwu 1 of Obi Mbieri autonomous community have been outside Obi Mbieri for over 6 years.
These issues have further fueled debate about compliance with both local constitutional and statutory requirements.
Another area of concern relates to the authorization of the suspension letter. The document was reportedly signed by Chief Emmanuel Ahuokpoeme. However, provisions of the Obi Mbieri Constitution indicate that only the Eze or the Traditional Prime Minister, as principal officers of the Eze’s Cabinet, are empowered to formally endorse such decisions.
This has led to allegations of procedural irregularities, with some stakeholders calling for clarification and, where necessary, independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the issuance of the letter.
“Chief Emmanuel Ahuokpoeme is not the Eze of Obi Mbieri autonomous community. Chief Emmanuel Ahuokpoeme is not the traditional prime minister of the Obi Mbieri autonomous community. This is document is not authentic and we are urging relevant authorities to step in and ensure that due process is followed” Says a stakeholder that was interviewed.
This development has further intensified public discourse, with increasing calls to relevant government authorities for a thorough investigation into related matters, including allegations of the authenticity of the suspension document signed by Chief Emmanuel Ahuokpoeme. Accountability is essential to maintaining trust in leadership structures.
Obi Mbieri Interim caretaker committee President General , Mr. Clement Ohanyerenwa urge Obi Mbieri people to remain calm while emphasizing the importance of adhering strictly to constitutional provisions. He noted that transparency, due process, and respect for established governance structures are essential for maintaining trust, unity, and stability within Obi Mbieri.
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