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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
An Enugu State High Court has issued an interim injunction barring the Nigeria Police Force from arresting or harassing three Mburubu community leaders amid an ongoing chieftaincy dispute in Nkanu East Local Government Area.
Justice C.A. Ogbuabor granted the order on Thursday, February 27, 2025, following an ex-parte application filed by Dr. Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, Kenneth Igbudu, and Obinna Okonkwo. The ruling also suspends any process to select a traditional ruler in Mburubu without the plaintiffs’ participation.
In suit number E/195/2025, the plaintiffs alleged intimidation and attempts by certain interest groups to manipulate the kingship selection process. Their counsel, Sir K. Olemeforo, argued that due process and fairness must be upheld. The defendants in the case include the Nigeria Police Force, Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police, and other officials, alongside Emmanuel Edeh (sued in his personal capacity and as a representative of the Mburubu Town Union), the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Attorney General of Enugu State.
The court barred the police from arresting, inviting, or detaining the plaintiffs over complaints from Emmanuel Edeh or his associates.
It also prohibited the Enugu State Government, Mburubu Town Union, and other stakeholders from conducting any selection or election process for the community’s traditional stool without the plaintiffs’ involvement.
Justice Ogbuabor stressed that any attempt to bypass legal procedures could trigger unrest in the community. The case was adjourned to May 13, 2025, for a full hearing on the substantive issues.
