Eze Prof. Amobi Uwaleke, Ndi Oha Uratta Defeats Boniface Ariri, Others As Obibi Uratta Traditional Ruler’s Legal Battle Ends.
Anselem Anokwute
Eze Prof. Amobi Uwaleke has emerged victorious in a long-standing legal battle against Sir Boniface Ariri for the traditional rulership of Obibi Uratta in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State.
The Imo State High Court reaffirmed Uwaleke’s position as the authentic traditional ruler, invalidating Ariri’s claim which was strictly opposed by Ndi Oha Uratta Elders Supreme Council.
The court’s decision, delivered under suit no. HOW/131/2022, in favor of Oha Uratta Elders Supreme Council confirmed Uwaleke as the lawful Traditional Ruler of Obibi-Uratta Autonomous Community.
Speaking to newsmen, Eze Uwaleke expressed gratitude to God and his people for their support and emphasized that the court’s decision restored the rightful order within the community.
Prof. Uwaleke, highlighted that, he was properly selected, crowned, and recognized by the Local Government Council, the Imo Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Department of Security Services (DSS) respectively.
He also received a Certificate of Recognition and a Staff of Office from the then Governor of Imo State.
With Sir Ariri missing the opportunity to appeal due to a time ban, the royal tussle has come to an end, and Uwaleke’s leadership is now undisputed.
Prof. Uwaleke has called for unity and reconciliations within the Obibi-Uratta community, urging residents to support his leadership as he focuses on fostering peace and driving development .
This outcome is significant, as it resolves the confusion that arose when Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, purportedly gave a Staff of Office to Ariri, despite Eze Prof Uwaleke already being recognized as the traditional ruler.
The court’s decision reaffirms the importance of following traditional customs and procedures in selecting leaders.
