Battle over Ogwashi-Uku stool rages as royal family backs new king

There seems to be no end in sight to the battle over the Ogwashi-Uku stool, as the royal family has faulted claims that the newly-installed Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Ifechukwude Okonjo, was crowned in error.

In a statement made available to The Guardian yesterday, the royal family urged the general public to disregard any information by some individuals determined to bring the community’s royal institution to ridicule.

The statement was signed by the acting Diokpa, Umu Obi Obahai royal family, Prince Emmanuel Ohei; the Ozoma of Ogwashi-Uku, Prince Okolobi Lawrence; and the palace secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi.

Another member of the family, Prince Patrick Okonjo, who reportedly said he was speaking for the Umu Obi Obahai royal family, had claimed that last Friday’s coronation ceremony was a wasted effort, as his own faction of the family did not recognise the ascension of the new king.

But the kingdom’s representatives, who signed the latest statement, described him as a serial petition writer.

Accordingly, they urged the public, the media and all stakeholders to ignore his “reckless comments”.

They stated, “He has been issuing such frivolous statements and filing frivolous court cases in pursuit of his selfish interest for over a decade.

“The Umu Obi Obahai royal family is united in its decision, which produced Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo, and this decision has been endorsed by the kingmakers, Agidiehe and Ikelike.

“The successful installation, enthronement and the joy of the people last Friday (September 13, 2019) knows no bounds and goes to show that the people of Ogwashi-Uku are happy with this decision.”