Igwe Gerald Obunadike Mbamalu, a traditional ruler in Anambra State, has stated that APC governors have no right to stop Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike from campaigning for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election. Mbamalu, also known as Eze Oranyelu I, Eze Ojoto III, made this statement while speaking on various issues in Nigeria, including the country's 66th Independence anniversary.
Mbamalu emphasized that traditional rulers in Nigeria cannot provide security during elections in their domains without statutory recognition as a fourth tier of government. He argued that they remain helpless, both constitutionally and financially, to take on such a role. The traditional ruler also pointed out that even government agencies managing security do not do so without financial and legal backing.
The South East Council of Traditional Rulers (SECTR) recently abolished the use of the title Eze Ndigbo by Igbo leaders in the Diaspora, insisting that the title is reserved for those traditionally crowned as kings in Igbo land. Mbamalu also mentioned that those who used to parade themselves as Eze Ndigbo have stopped bearing that title and now bear the title Onyendu instead.
On Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary, Mbamalu said there was every reason to celebrate, given that the country remained united and indivisible despite its many challenges. However, he also drew attention to the poor condition of major roads, including the Benin bypass, the Lagos/Shagamu road, and the Benin/Onitsha road, describing them as unsafe for travelers and calling for urgent repairs before Christmas.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will address Nigerians on October 1 as the nation marks a low-key 66th Independence celebration. Vice President Kashim Shettima led the Nigerian delegation to represent President Tinubu at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York. Mbamalu also commented on the allegation that President Tinubu's absence from the Assembly for a third consecutive year was due to questions he needs to answer.
Mbamalu expressed concerns about the role of thuggery in disrupting the electoral process, stating that it can never stop unless the government tackles unemployment. He argued that politicians recruit young men and women as thugs, and that government must address the issue of unemployment to eradicate thuggery. The traditional ruler also emphasized the need for a free and fair election in 2027.
As Nigerians prepare to go to the polls in a few months, traditional rulers plan to play a role in complementing the efforts of the Federal Government in ensuring a peaceful 2027 general election. However, Mbamalu stressed that they need statutory recognition and empowerment to effectively contribute to maintaining peace and security in their domains.
Key points
- Traditional ruler Igwe Mbamalu says APC governors have no right to stop Wike from campaigning for Tinubu.
- Mbamalu emphasizes that traditional rulers need statutory recognition to provide security during elections.
- The traditional ruler links thuggery to unemployment and calls for government action to address the issue.
