Anambra: Igwe Iweka Suspends Palace Secretary Over Contempt Of Court
Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the traditional ruler of Obosi Town in Idemmili North Local Government of Anambra has suspended Mr Shedrack Okenwa.as his palace secretary.
Okenwa’s suspension is contained in a letter dated June 30, 2023, personally signed by the traditional ruler and submitted to the Anambra Truth, Justice and Peace Commission (ATJPC).
The Commission which was set up by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo to investigate causes of violence at its sitting on June 27 recommended that Okenwa be suspended following his indictment by Anambra High Court for involvement in the murder of one Obiesie Michael Anaekwu.
The judgement on the case with Suit.no. HID/Misc.30/2013 between Mrs Ifeoma Helen Anekwu vs SSS &11others delivered by Hon. Justice Arinze Akabua further awarded the sum of N55 million as damage to Okenwa and other respondents.
The judgement was entered on March 16, 2017.
The Prof. Chidi Odinkalu led Commission said it was morally wrong for Igwe Iweka to retain a court indicted Okenwa as palace secretary five years and after the judgement at a time when the community was in search of genuine peace and reconciliation.
In line with the recommendation of the Commission, Igwe Iweka suspended Okenwa as palace secretary and communicated same in a letter to the committee.
According to the letter by Igwe Iweka, based on the recommendation of the Truth Justice And Peace Commission set up by the Governor of Anambra State Prof. Charles Soludo CFR. I Igwe Chidubem Iweka, Eze Iweka III,
“I hereby suspend the secretary to the Palace, Nze Igwebuike Shedrack
Okenwa, in the interest of peace,” he said.
Acknowledging the receipt of the letter, the Commision in a reply signed by the Committee Chairman dated June 30, thanked the traditional ruler for committing to the peace process.
The ATJPC said “I write to acknowledge your kind letter dated and received today concerning the above subject matter.
“I share entirely in your understanding that this step will contribute
enormously to fostering peace and coexistence in Obosi and in enhancing the public esteem, authority and standing of the ancient stool of the Igwe Obosi.
“While thanking you for your prompt and personal attention to this matter,
kindly accept, Your Royal Highness, assurances of my profound esteem,” it said.
