The Mburubu General Assembly has announced that it has appealed the judgment of the Enugu State High Court, which ordered a fresh election over the traditional rulership tussle in the community.
Speaking to newsmen in Enugu on Friday regarding the group’s position following the court’s verdict, the counsel to the assembly, Barr. Chijioke Odueze, described the ruling as not only surprising but a clear case of injustice against the will of the people.
He stated that for the court to acknowledge both the 1976 and 2003 constitutions of the community, only to disregard the former in favor of the latter, was not only astonishing but also a travesty of justice. He further disclosed that the group had filed a stay of execution of the judgment, pending the determination of their appeal.
According to him, “There were people contesting for the traditional leadership of Mburubu, which is currently held by Chief Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe. The matter was slated for judgment on February 12th, where the trial judge, Hon. Justice Co Ajah, ordered a fresh election and the use of the 2003 constitution, which is not known to anybody.”
Barr. Odueze also confirmed that a notice of appeal had been duly filed, expressing confidence that the appellate court would ensure justice prevails. “A stay of execution was filed immediately in line with the dictates of the law, alongside the notice of appeal. We have served all relevant parties involved, including the Attorney General of Enugu State and the Enugu State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Rural Development, who are the 4th and 5th respondents,” he stated.
He reiterated that the 1976 constitution remains the only known and widely accepted document guiding the traditional leadership structure of Mburubu. “This was the same constitution under which the late Igwe, HRH Igwe EMO. Ezeh, was elected and enthroned without dispute. It is, therefore, illogical to impose an unfamiliar document on the people at this point.”
He further warned that any attempt to enforce the judgment without exhausting all legal processes would amount to a direct affront to the customs and traditions of the community. “We are determined to see this matter through to a logical and just conclusion, as we believe the appellate court will not allow such injustice to stand.”
Meanwhile, the Ndị Nze na Ọzọ Mburubu and Ákwá Mburubu, the highest traditional groups in the community, have strongly condemned the judgment, affirming that the 1976 constitution remains the legally recognized framework for kingship selection. They maintained that it was under this same constitution that the late Igwe, HRH Igwe EMO. Ezeh, was rightfully enthroned.
It was gathered that the judgment left the community in shock and distress, with many expressing concerns over what they described as an attempt to undermine their long-standing traditions. However, the situation was calmed by their Igwe-elect, Igwe Dr. Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, who reassured the people of a just resolution.
Reports indicate that over 80% of the community members stand firmly in support of Igwe Dr. Onuokaibe, whom they regard as the rightful traditional ruler. They argue that his emergence was in line with the people’s will and must not be overturned by external influences.
Community leaders and stakeholders have called on the government and relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served by upholding the decision of the people. They insist that any attempt to subvert their choice would not only violate their customs but could also lead to unnecessary unrest.
As the legal battle continues, the people of Mburubu remain resolute in their support for Igwe Dr. Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, expressing confidence that the appellate court will set aside the judgment and reaffirm his position as their rightful traditional ruler.
