Nkomoro Community Crowns Cletus Igwe as Traditional Ruler

The Nkomoro autonomous community in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State has elected Cletus Igwe as its new traditional ruler.

In a highly anticipated election, Igwe secured 734 votes to defeat his closest rival, Joseph Oganyi, who garnered 387 votes.

The election saw massive turnout as community members participated en masse to choose their monarch.

This development comes months after a faction of the community coronated a former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Jacob Nwakpa, as the traditional ruler in June 2024.

The earlier coronation sparked a crisis, resulting in the destruction of properties, including houses and vehicles. Journalists covering the event were also attacked, and their vehicles vandalized.

Governor Francis Nwifuru, during the Nigeria Independence Day celebration and Ebonyi State’s 28th anniversary on October 1, issued staff of recognition to newly elected traditional rulers across the state.

However, Nwakpa did not receive this recognition, which reportedly influenced the community’s decision to elect Igwe as the new monarch.

Oscar Nwafor, chairman of the electoral committee, described the election process as peaceful, free, fair, and credible.

In his acceptance speech, Igwe pledged to rule with the fear of God, honesty, transparency, and fairness to foster peace and development in the community.