Igbo traditional rulers in the Diaspora popularly called Eze Ndigbo have accused Eze Cletus Ilomuanya of being the architect of the disunity that has continued to rock the traditional institution in South-East Nigeria.
They made the allegation today through their National President, Eze Nwabueze Ohazuruike, Eze Npume 11 of Lagos State, during a courtesy visit to Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha in the Government House, Owerri.
Eze Ohazuruike described Ilomuanya as a self-acclaimed chairman of South East Council of Traditional Rulers in pursuit of a selfish agenda, saying he has disunited Igbos living in other states of the federation.
There is no love lost between Governor Okorocha and Eze Ilomuanya, the traditional ruler of Obinugwu Autonomous Community, Ideato South Local Government Area in Imo State.
Ohazuruike maintained that the unity of Ndigbo in the country remains paramount and would not be jeopardise by “a self-seeking and power drunk politician who parades himself as a traditional ruler.”
He applauded Governor Okorocha for his achievements, especially in the area or infrastructural development.
Eze Ohazuruike commended the governor for the establishment of Community Government Council in the state and asked the governor to extend same to them in Diaspora.
He described as unacceptable the constant killing of Ndigbo especially in the northern part of the country and appealed to Gov. Okorocha to reach out to the families that lost their love ones to the campaign of violence by the Boko Haram.
In his response, Owelle Okorocha urged Ndigbo and Ezes in the Diaspora to always ensure peaceful co-existence and unity in their host states.
He announced the endorsement of their positions by the state government and disclosed plans by his administration to issue them with proper staff of office to enable them operate and coordinate Igbos effectively.
The governor urged Ndigbo to regard themselves as residents of the areas they find themselves and to respect the traditions and culture of their host communities.
Gov. Okorocha inform his august visitors that the community government council of his administration is aimed at bringing development and government to the grassroots and assured that his government would consider extending same to Ndigbo in Diaspora.
He promised to liaise with other governors in the South-East to put up a trust fund to help those affected by the unfortunate killings by Boko Haram.
•Photo shows Eze Ilomuanya.
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