Soludo Replaces Obi of Onitsha as Chairman of Anambra Traditional Rulers Council

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has appointed Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the Traditional Ruler of Obosi, as the new Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council (ASTRC), replacing Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha. The announcement was made at the launch of the “Operation Udo Ga-Achị” security initiative at the International Convention Centre in Awka.

The decision has sparked controversy, especially as Igwe Achebe was absent from the event. His removal has fueled speculation about an ongoing rift between the state government and the Obi of Onitsha. Some critics view the move as a continuation of past tensions, pointing to Governor Soludo’s history of actions against Achebe’s leadership of the council.

In 2024, the Soludo administration dissolved the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, declaring it illegally constituted under Igwe Achebe. The move followed an open letter from the Obi of Onitsha, in which he criticized what he described as the excesses of the state government, particularly the dismissal of the Traditional Ruler of Neni. That dissolution effectively removed Achebe from his position, with no clear timeline for the council’s reconstitution. Many saw the action as a direct retaliation, with political analysts at the time labeling it an attempt to weaken the influence of traditional rulers.

Public policy analyst Pope Amaefuna previously described Soludo’s approach as “vindictive and senseless,” arguing that it reflected a broader pattern of disregard for traditional institutions in the state. The latest appointment of Igwe Iweka as chairman has only deepened concerns over the government’s treatment of monarchs in Anambra.

While Governor Soludo insists the change is part of efforts to restructure the council under the new Anambra Traditional Rulers Council Law, critics argue that it signals ongoing hostility toward Igwe Achebe and the traditional leadership of Onitsha. The timing and manner of the replacement continue to raise questions about the governor’s motives, particularly as elections approach.

With Igwe Iweka now at the helm, the council faces the challenge of rebuilding its credibility after months of uncertainty. Many will be watching to see how this leadership shift affects the relationship between the state government and Anambra’s traditional rulers, as well as the future of initiatives like “Operation Udo Ga-Achị.”