Controversy Erupts Over Leadership of Ndi Eze Council in Lagos
.....Council Divided Amid Allegations of Fraud and Misrepresentation
Controversy Erupts Over Leadership of Ndi Eze Council in Lagos
…..Council Divided Amid Allegations of Fraud and Misrepresentation
By Naomi Onome
A leadership dispute has emerged within the Igbo traditional leadership community in Lagos State, as a group identifying itself as the “original council of Eze Ndi Igbo” led by Eze Chika Nwokedi has publicly challenged the legitimacy of another faction claiming authority.
In a statement released by Eze Chika Nwokedi, they alleged that a rival body presenting itself as a council of Ndi Eze is not authentic, claiming it consists of only four individuals and lacks the structure and credibility of a recognized council. Eze Chika further questioned the existence of a functional board within the rival faction, alleging that most of its supposed members are deceased, elderly, or inactive.
According to the statement, the recognized council comprises 39 members and operates under a unified leadership structure. Eze Chika Nwokedi, the chairman of ‘Ndi Eze Igbo’ insisted that any legitimate council of Ndi Eze should be transparent about its membership, leadership, and operations, including maintaining a verifiable office and financial account.
The Chairman also raised concerns about alleged misrepresentation to the public, calling on the rival faction to publish the names of its members, disclose its office location, and provide evidence of an active governing board. He further urged relevant authorities, including law enforcement and regulatory bodies, to verify the claims being made by the opposing group.
Additionally, the statement referenced internal disagreements following the expiration of a previous tenure, noting that new elections were conducted, after which some individuals allegedly refused to recognize the outcome and distanced themselves from the larger council.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions within the Igbo leadership structure in Lagos, with both sides claiming legitimacy. Observers say the dispute may require intervention from community elders or regulatory institutions to establish clarity and restore unity.
As of the time of reporting, the faction accused of illegitimacy has not publicly responded to the allegations.
