Tension and palpable fear have engulfed Ngwoma‑Obube Autonomous Community in Owerri North following a fierce dispute over the selection of a new Eze‑Elect.
Two rival factions have emerged: one endorsing Crown Prince Kemakolam Onukogu, the hereditary heir from the Onukogu dynasty, and another presenting Engr. Chinedu Ekeocha, described by community elders as a “stranger element.” Critics argue that his alleged supporters are impostors conducting an unlawful parallel selection.
In a letter dated 25 June 2025, community President General Ephraim Anuforo denounced an unauthorised plebiscite that purportedly elected Mr Ekeocha, warning against “self‑proclaimed Ndi Oha” who labeled themselves as grassroots representatives and submitted his name to the local council chairman.
Furthermore, Chief Albert Ahanonu (Arufuoaku Chukwubuikem I of Umuchoko), representing Umuchoko village, condemned the move as sacrilegious, insisting the Ezeship remains a hereditary right reserved for the Onukogu family. Three member villages—Umuzuru, Umuoro, and Umuobashi—similarly issued disclaimers clarifying they did not participate in the purported plebiscite and that it was limited to Amafor village alone. Elders and palace chiefs echoed this position, denying the existence of any community constitution permitting a rotating kingship.
Historical records confirm the Onukogu lineage’s longstanding precedence: the first crowned king, Eze Onukogu Okeremgbere, was appointed in 1906, succeeded by Eze Stephen Ejelonu Onukogu (1933 – 1978) and most recently Eze Dr Andrew Onukogu (1979 – 2024). By tradition, succession is primogeniture, passing from father to firstborn son. Accordingly, Crown Prince Kemakolam was formally presented as Eze‑Elect to the Executive Chairman of Owerri North LGA on 29 May 2025, following the customary year of mourning.
