The leaders of the Isiagu-Akpawfu Autonomous Community in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State have cautioned against the spread of misinformation and inciting actions that they say can disrupt peace in the community.

In response to media reports alleging tension over the community’s choice of traditional ruler, the leaders firmly stated that there is no crisis in Isiagu-Akpawfu, and that residents continue to go about their daily lives in peace.

The reports had claimed controversy over the selection of Prince Tony Ike Okoye as the traditional ruler instead of Chief James Ede Ogbu. However, in a joint statement, community leaders described the allegations as “concocted lies, frivolous and baseless,” urging the public to disregard them.

The statement, signed by key leaders from various villages in the community, including Secretary General Anthony Obinna Nnamani and village chairmen Ozor Anaepkere Ede Anioko, Ifeanyi Nnamani, Dr. Pius Emeka Nnamani, and Goddy Edeani, reaffirmed Prince Okoye’s legitimacy.

“For clarity, Isiagu Akpawfu is currently peaceful. The people celebrated the peaceful emergence of their traditional ruler, Prince Tony Ike Okoye, with great joy and glamour after 19 years of anticipation,” the statement read.

The leaders recalled that a screening committee set up in 2018 disqualified Mr. James Ede Ogbu because his kindred is not indigenous to Isiagu-Akpawfu.

The matter was taken to court, and in Suit No. E/666/2019 before Justice C. O. Ajah at the Enugu High Court, Ogbu reportedly admitted under cross-examination that his kindred is not part of the community.

On November 29, 2024, the court ruled in favour of Prince Okoye, declaring him the only qualified candidate based on the community’s Traditional Rulership Constitution.

The statement added that the judgment had been recognised by the community, Town Union, government authorities, and stakeholders. A stakeholders’ meeting, convened by the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs on April 7, 2025, led to Prince Okoye’s formal presentation as
Igwe-elect. He received a Certificate of Return during a widely attended event on April 26.

The leaders expressed appreciation to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for the ongoing development projects in Isiagu and Akpawfu, while warning against actions they say are being instigated by Mr. James Ede Ogbu and Mr. Ibezimako Ede to undermine peace.

Ogbu and Ede had recently held a press briefing in Enugu rejecting Prince Okoye’s emergence, claiming that Ogbu was unfairly disqualified due to his disputed indigene status.

The community leaders, however, urged the public to see through what they described as distractions and attempts to destabilise a process that has long been settled both legally and traditionally.