Nsukka Traditional Rulers Intervene in Obi-Okonkwo Feud, Urge Reconciliation and Respect for Rule of Law …Warn against inflammatory rhetoric, call for civility in political discourse

The Enugu North Traditional Rulers Council for Peace, Justice and Social Harmony (ENTRC) has stepped into the growing public disagreement between former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo, urging both men to embrace restraint, dialogue, and reconciliation.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, His Royal Majesty Eze-Igwe Williams Ezugwu, the council expressed concern over the escalating exchanges between the two prominent Igbo figures, warning that personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric could deepen divisions within society.

The monarch, who is also Eze Ogbozarra III of Opi Ancient Kingdom and Igwe of Ibagwa Opi, said the traditional institution was compelled to intervene in the interest of peace, unity, and the preservation of dignified public discourse.

While acknowledging reports that legal proceedings had been initiated in connection with the dispute, the council stressed its respect for the judiciary and declined to comment on the substance of the claims and counterclaims before the courts.

“We hold the judiciary in the highest regard and fully respect the sanctity of the rule of law,” the statement said.

“Consequently, in deference to the independence of the courts and the principle that matters before a court of competent jurisdiction should not be prejudged, we shall refrain from commenting on the merits or otherwise of the claims, allegations, counter-allegations, or legal positions advanced by either side.”

The council noted that differences in political ideology, leadership preferences, and public policy positions are legitimate features of democratic engagement and should not be allowed to degenerate into personal hostility.

According to the traditional rulers, democracy thrives on robust debate and constructive criticism, but such engagements must be conducted with responsibility, dignity, and mutual respect.

The council particularly appealed to Okonkwo, whom it described as a distinguished son of Nsukka who has brought honour to the people through his contributions to law, entertainment, and public service, to continue to conduct political engagements with decorum and restraint.

It urged him to ensure that disagreements remain focused on policies, principles, and ideas rather than personal attacks.

“The traditional institutions of Nsukka and the wider Enugu North Senatorial District have always stood for justice, mutual respect, responsible leadership, civility, and peaceful coexistence,” the statement added.

“No son or daughter of Nsukka should be associated with conduct capable of unnecessarily deepening divisions, weakening social cohesion, or diminishing the noble values for which our people are respected.”

The council also acknowledged Obi’s contributions to national development and public discourse, encouraging both men to explore avenues for dialogue and amicable resolution of their differences.

It said enduring leadership is demonstrated not only by defending one’s convictions but also by the wisdom to pursue peace during moments of disagreement.

The traditional rulers further called on political actors, opinion leaders, supporters, and members of the public to avoid inflammatory language and allow the judicial process to run its course without interference.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion, the council expressed hope that wisdom, dialogue, and unity would ultimately prevail over anger and division.

“May wisdom prevail over anger, dialogue over discord, and unity over division,” the statement concluded.