ENUGU GOVT WITHDRAWS MONARCH’S RECOGNITION OVER LAWYER’S MURDER
Enugu State Government has published an official gazette detailing findings and recommendations regarding the Okwojo Town Union and the death of Barrister Theophilus Ejimofor Ozongwu, and related issues.
The white paper which is sequel to the report and recommendations of a Judicial Commission of Enquiry, recommended the withdrawal of recognition of Igwe C.C. Ude for failure to perform his duties as Traditional Ruler.
It also recommended that a community leader Ozo Ramsey Onyia should face the consequences of being banned from being in any leadership position in Okwojo Ngwo for five years.
The Commission further recommended the proscription of The Okwojo Town Union.
“That all the dealings of the Town Union in respect of land and land matters should be nullified and set aside.”
The Commission noted that the activities of the Okwojo Town Union aggravated the crisis in Okwojo Ngwo leading to the gruesome murder of the late Ozo Theophilus Ejimofor Ozongwu.
“The Town Union and without justification trespassed into the late Barr. Theophilus Ejimofor Ozongwu’s Palm Plantation situated within the Government Forest Reserve Okwojo and damaged part of the Palm Plantation which was duly granted to him by the Government.
“The destruction of part of the said Palm Plantation created the circumstances that led to the murder of the late Barr. Theophilus Ejimofor Ozongwu on 23rd December, 2015.”
It also recommended “that the trial of suspects in the murder of the late Barr. Theophilus Ejimofor Ozongwu is ongoing in Court and judgment should therefore be awaited.
“The government should ensure that the police continue their investigation until all those connected with the gruesome murder are arrested and prosecuted.
The government accepts the above recommendations and hereby directs the Ministry of Justice to monitor the implementation of the recommendations.