Monarch drags his subject to court for refusing to call him ‘Igwe’

The traditional ruler of Isiagu community in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Igwe Austin Ozoemenam Nwankwo, has dragged one of his subjects, Chief Ben Ifeatu, to court for refusing to recognize him as the traditional ruler.

Nwankwo wants the court to compel Chief Ifeatu, a claimant to the stool of the community, to begin to address him properly as ‘Igwe’. On Wednesday, January 20, the monarch told the court that Chief Ifeatu had insisted on addressing him as Chief Austin Nwankwo.

“Chief Ifeatu had continued to address me as Chief Austin Nwankwo, when he is aware I am his traditional ruler. When he started contending my position as traditional ruler of Isiagu ancient kingdom, I tendered my certificate of recognition in the court. “Ifeatu in response told the court: “I will not recognize him as my traditional ruler. Only him knows how and where he got the certificate of recognition. So, it behooves on him to prove to the court that he is the authentic traditional ruler.” In her ruling, the Chief Magistrate, Mrs O.N Ike, told counsel to the plaintiff to apply officially in written address, so that the court will study the application and act accordingly.