DSS Report on Anambra Traditional Stool Saga Missing from Government Records

The report by the Department of State Services (DSS) on the ongoing traditional stool dispute in Ojoto, Anambra State, has reportedly gone missing from government records, The Nation is reporting.  This development has prompted higher authorities to direct the Anambra State government to produce the document without delay, in an effort to resolve tensions and restore peace in the community.

The DSS had submitted the report after conducting investigations into the contentious succession process, which has deeply divided the community. Two individuals, Chief Gerald Mbamalu and Chief Dennis Okafor, are contesting the stool. Despite the community selecting and presenting Chief Okafor as their choice to the local and state governments, the government went on to issue the staff of office and certificate to Chief Mbamalu instead.

The community, anticipating an official announcement that aligned with their decision, was taken aback when the government recognized a different candidate. The situation has led to growing tensions and resentment within the area. A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that numerous security operatives in plain clothes had been deployed to the community to maintain order.

The officer warned that authorities are taking the matter seriously, given concerns about rising militant activities in various parts of the country. He cautioned that anyone found fomenting trouble in the community, regardless of status, would face the full weight of the law. He also urged the state government to demonstrate neutrality, stressing that the choice of the people should be respected as they are the rightful stakeholders in the matter.

The dispute is currently being addressed in court. During a recent hearing, Kingsley Iruba, one of the plaintiffs’ lawyers, argued that the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters should be required to produce the DSS report for the court rather than serve as a witness in the case. Justice Emeka Nri-Ezedi, presiding over the matter, is expected to issue a ruling in due course.