There is tension at Mburubu Community in Nkanu East Local Government of Enugu State, as two monarchs lay claim to the community’s royal stool, two years after the death of their last ruler, His Majesty, Igwe Emmanuel Ezeh (Ozulumba I of Mburubu Kingdom).

The two leaders fighting over the stool are, Chief Patrick Onuokaibe and High Chief Linus Igbudu.

While the Mburubu General Assembly chose Onuokaibe in the last week of December 2023, Igbudu was unanimously elected by delegates from the seven villages that make up the community under the supervision of Mburubu Town Union (MTU) in the second week of this month.

The two leaders had since been presented to Nkanu East Local Government authorities for onward presentation to the state government for recognition and presentation of staff of offices.

Speaking after presenting Onuokaibe to the local government, the President, Mburubu General Assembly, Chief Chijioke Nwachukwu, said he had exhibited notable qualities which stood him out in the kingdom, hence the decision of the people to select him as their traditional ruler.

Onuokaibe’s choice was, however, refuted and disowned by the Mburubu Council of Chiefs, also known as the Igwe Cabinet, who accused some leaders of the community of plotting to turn the community into their personal fiefdom.

This was followed by the election of Igbudu as the authentic Igwe-elect for the community by the Mburubu Town Union (MTU).

Speaking also during the presentation of Igbudu to the council chairman, the President-General, Chief Emmanuel Edeh, said while the community was concluding the observation of a two-year mourning period for the late traditional ruler, Igwe Ezeh, it was only natural that the community scout for a new king to be in custody of the traditions and customs of Mburubu ancient kingdom. (The Nation)

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