By George Ozalla
The Governor of Anambra State, Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has inaugurated a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the protracted dispute surrounding the traditional stool of Awka, known as the Eze Uzu throne.
The Commission was inaugurated on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Hall, Light House, Awka, with senior government officials and community stakeholders in attendance.
The panel is chaired by Hon. Justice Paul Obidigwe (Rtd), former Chief Judge of Anambra State. Other members include Prof. Kate Omenugha as Secretary; HRH Dr. Ben Emeka, Igwe Umueri; Barr. Nnaemeka Francis Patrick Egonu; and Rev. Fr. Barr. Maurice Izunwa.
Inaugurating the Commission through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Governor Soludo directed members to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry into the issues that have generated tension over the revered traditional stool.
According to the terms of reference, the Commission is to determine both the remote and immediate causes of the dispute over the Eze Uzu stool of Awka. It is also mandated to ascertain whether Chief Gibson Nwosu, known as Eze Uzu II of Awka, was properly dethroned, and to determine whether Chief Austin Ndigwe was duly selected and installed as the legitimate traditional ruler of Awka and whether he is lawfully functioning in that capacity.
The panel is further required to make recommendations to the state government on steps necessary to bring the dispute to a definitive end.
In carrying out its assignment, the Commission is to be guided by the Traditional Rulers Amended Constitution for Awka Town, 1986, the Constitution of Awka Development Union, and the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Law, 2007.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government stressed the need to uphold due process, respect for tradition and the rule of law in resolving the matter, adding that the peace and unity of Awka remain central to the administration’s commitment to stability across the state.
The dispute over the Eze Uzu stool has lingered for years, deepening divisions within Awka’s royal institutions and segments of the community. Contesting claims over succession, interpretation of the town’s traditional constitution, and questions surrounding the process that led to the dethronement of Chief Gibson Nwosu and the emergence of Chief Austin Ndigwe have resulted in parallel assertions of authority. The situation has sparked petitions, court actions and heightened tension among stakeholders, prompting calls for a decisive intervention to safeguard the cultural heritage and cohesion of the Awka people.
The Commission is expected to conclude its assignment and submit its report to the Governor on or before March 17, 2026.
