By Praise Chinecherem
Anambra State government has waded into the lingering leadership crisis in Azia community in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state.
Two contestants to the throne, Prof Titus Eze and Chief Felix Ifeanyimuo were locked in the struggle over who becomes the monarch, when suddenly, Eze died.
Ifeanyimuo had since demanded certificate of recognition be issued him as the monarch, but one of the villages Umudiokpara insisted it was its turn to present a monarch.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon Tony Collins Nwabunwanne had invited leaders and elders of the two factions involved in the tussle to a fact finding meeting to resolve the crisis.
The elders of the community, including past and present presidents general, title chiefs took their turns to narrate the history of the tussle
While some called for fresh election, others insisted that Ifeanyimuo should be issued certificate of recognition as monarch.
A cleric, Rev Fr Hyginus Aghaulor was among those who called for fresh election, maintaining it was Umudiokpara turn to produce the town’s monarch.
House of member representing Ihiala II constituency, Hon Golden Iloh praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s efforts towards finding lasting peace in various communities in the state.
He assured that government resolution to the crisis would be for the best interests of all members of the community.
Responding, the Commissioner who presided over the meeting promised that government would soon take a position on the kingship tussle in the community.
“You’ll hear from us soon on the position of government and the position will benefit all,” he assured.
