The Anambra State government has suspended Damian Ezeani, the traditional ruler of the Neni community, for one year for conferring a chieftaincy title on Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

The suspension is contained in a letter by Tony Nwabunwanne, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, on Tuesday.

Mr Ubah of the All Progressives Congress (APC) represents Anambra South Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

The commissioner said Mr Ezeani did not obtain approval from the state government as contained in the traditional rulers’ code of conduct.

“We have received confirmed reports that you, as the traditional ruler of Neni, conferred such a phantom chieftaincy title today on one Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in violation of the code of conduct and without clearance from the ministry.

“Whether or not your action was for pecuniary reasons, as being insinuated in many quarters, is irrelevant. What is important is that your action is an affront to order and good governance.

“I am directed to inform you that Mr Governor has, in the exercise of his powers under Section 2 (C) of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers (Amendment) Law, 2020, suspended your recognition as the traditional ruler of Neni until further notice,” he said.

Mr Nwabunwanne said the traditional ruler was, by the letter, directed to state his defence and the reason why his certificate of recognition should not be withdrawn.

He added, “In the meantime, you are advised, in your own interest, to stop parading yourself forthwith, as the traditional ruler of the Neni community.”

(NAN)