After years of controversy, the battle over Awka’s traditional stool may finally be over—at least on paper.
A Commission of Inquiry set up by Governor Chukwuma Soludo has affirmed Gibson Nwosu as the legitimate traditional ruler of Awka, declaring his earlier removal unlawful and without legal backing.
Presenting its report in Awka, the panel—led by Paul Obidigwe—ruled that Nwosu’s purported dethronement in 2017 violated due process, citing lack of quorum, denial of fair hearing, and non-compliance with the Anambra Traditional Rulers Law.
The commission also dismissed the claim of Austin Ndigwe, stating he was never lawfully selected or installed, and that there was no vacancy on the throne in the first place.
It recommended the formal reaffirmation of Nwosu as Awka’s traditional ruler and urged the government to stop what it described as unlawful claims to the stool.
Reacting, Soludo welcomed the findings but made it clear the final decision would come after a White Paper is issued. He warned that his administration would no longer tolerate multiple claimants to a single traditional stool.
Describing Awka as more than just a community but the state capital, the governor stressed that any dispute over its leadership undermines the entire state.
His message was firm: respect the law, follow due process, and uphold the dignity of traditional institutions.
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