Family of Detained Enugu Monarch Appeals for His Release

The children of Igwe Ekwueme Odenigbo, the traditional ruler of Akpakume in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, have called on Governor Peter Mbah to intervene in the ongoing incarceration of their 86-year-old blind father and their brother, Solomon. They also extended their plea to Senator Osita Ngwu and Udi Local Government Chairman, Engr. Hyginus Agu, seeking urgent action for their release.

Igwe Odenigbo and his son Solomon have been held at the Enugu Correctional Service Centre since January 9, 2025, following a petition by a prominent community member, Mr. Livinus Okolo, also known as Zion. The family claims their father and brother were wrongfully imprisoned due to an attack on the Igwe’s palace allegedly orchestrated by Okolo.

According to the family, the dispute began on December 23, 2024, when Okolo reportedly led an armed group to the palace, assaulting the monarch and seizing valuable items, including the staff of office. Okolo claimed he was the acting Igwe after accusing the monarch of illegal mining activities.

In response to the attack, outraged community youths reportedly retaliated by damaging Okolo’s property. This led to further tensions, with Okolo accusing the monarch and his supporters of inciting violence. The police detained Igwe Odenigbo and Solomon following these incidents, and they were subsequently charged and imprisoned.

The family insists their father, a retired pastor and community leader, is innocent and incapable of violence. They urge Governor Mbah and other leaders to secure the release of their father and brother.

Mr. Okolo has denied the allegations, asserting that the monarch incited youths to destroy property and that the state government is investigating the matter. He claimed that the crisis, exacerbated by disputes over mineral resources and land sales, has resulted in significant losses for the community.

The Enugu State Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Deacon Ogbodo, confirmed the monarch’s suspension, accusing him of authorizing mining activities without government approval. He stated that some items seized from the Igwe’s palace are held by his office.