Soludo Sets Up Five-Man Panel of Inquiry into Awka Igweship

The Governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, has inaugurated a five-member panel of inquiry to investigate the protracted Igweship dispute in the ancient town of Awka.
The crisis, which has persisted for nearly a decade, has deeply divided the community over the authenticity and legitimacy of the Eze Uzu stool of Awka. The dispute centers on Chief Gibson Nwosu, known as “Eze Uzu II,” and Chief Austin Ndigwe. While Nwosu maintains his position as the traditional ruler, Ndigwe and his supporters contend that Nwosu was lawfully dethroned and that Ndigwe has since been duly selected and installed as the rightful occupant of the throne.
The commission was formally inaugurated on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Hall, Lighthouse, Awka.
The panel is chaired by Hon. Justice Paul Obidigwe (Rtd), former Chief Judge of Anambra State. Other members are:
Prof. Kate Omenugha – Secretary
HRH Dr. Ben Emeka (Igwe of Umueri) – Member
Barr. Nnaemeka Francis Patrick Egonu – Member
Rev. Fr. Barr. Maurice Izunwa – Member
Inaugurating the panel, Governor Soludo charged members to conduct a thorough, impartial, and comprehensive investigation into the issues that have fueled tensions over the revered traditional stool. He emphasized the need for fairness, diligence, and strict adherence to due process.
Specifically, the commission is mandated to:
Determine the remote and immediate causes of the dispute over the traditional stool of “Eze Uzu” of Awka.
Ascertain whether Chief Gibson Nwosu, known as “Eze Uzu II,” was lawfully and appropriately dethroned.
Determine whether Chief Austin Ndigwe was duly selected and installed as the legitimate traditional ruler of Awka, and whether he is properly functioning in that capacity.
Make appropriate recommendations to the State Government on the necessary steps to bring the dispute to a definitive resolution.
In carrying out its assignment, the commission is expected to be guided by the provisions of the Traditional Rulers (Amended) Constitution for Awka Town (1986), the Constitution of the Awka Development Union, and the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Law (2007).
Governor Soludo, who was represented at the inauguration by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, underscored the importance of upholding respect for tradition, the rule of law, and established legal frameworks in resolving the matter. He noted that the peace, stability, and unity of Awka remain paramount to his administration.
The commission has been directed to conclude its inquiry and submit its report to the Governor on or before March 17, 2026.
The establishment of the panel marks a significant step by the Anambra State Government toward resolving the long-standing leadership crisis and restoring lasting harmony in Awka.