The Umuchukwu Progressive Union (UPU) has declared that the ruling of the Supreme Court of Nigeria affirming the change of the community’s name from Nkerehi to Umuchukwu is final and irreversible.
Speaking on behalf of the union, the very proactive President General, Chief Adinchezor Chukwuemeka said the judgment has conclusively settled all disputes surrounding the identity of the community, warning that any covert or overt attempt to revert to the former name, Nkerehi, would not succeed.
He noted that the apex court’s decision, which upheld the government gazette recognising Umuchukwu, represents the highest legal authority on the matter and must be respected by all parties.
“The verdict of the Supreme Court of Nigeria has come to stay. It is not subject to further debate or manipulation. Any surreptitious effort to return to the old name Nkerehi will fail because the law is clear and binding,” Chief Chukwuemeka stated.
The UPU further emphasised that the transition to Umuchukwu followed due democratic process, including a referendum overwhelmingly supported by community members, and subsequently validated through all levels of the judiciary.
On traditional leadership, the association reaffirmed that the election of Kenneth Maduka as the traditional ruler of Umuchukwu remains valid, lawful, and binding.
According to Comrade Chukwuemeka, the process that produced Igwe Maduka was conducted in line with established guidelines and under the supervision of relevant authorities from the Anambra State Government, including officials from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
He stressed that the outcome reflected the will of the people, adding that the overwhelming support recorded in the election underscores the legitimacy of Igwe Maduka’s ascension to the throne.
“The election of Igwe Kenneth Maduka remains a settled matter. It was free, fair, and conducted under government supervision. The mandate given to him by the people is clear and cannot be undermined by dissenting voices,” he added.
The union called on residents and stakeholders to disregard what it described as misleading narratives aimed at creating confusion, urging the community to remain united and focused on development.
UPU maintained that with the legal affirmation of its name and the recognised leadership structure in place, Umuchukwu is poised to continue its progress under a stable and lawful traditional institution.
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