KINGSLEY EBERE
A 64-year-old man, Chukwuemeka Ugwunta, was on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, arraigned before the Magistrate Court sitting in the Enugu Magisterial District over allegations relating to the use of a traditional title in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The arraignment comes amid the Enugu State Government’s position that it does not recognize Mr. Ugwunta as a traditional ruler in Agbaja Umumba Ndiuno Community.
According to a charge sheet signed by CSP. Onyeka Ekweozor, Acting Assistant Director of Legal, Directorate of Legal Services, Force CID Annex, Enugu, the case was filed with Charge No: COVE Cone/487/26. The Inspector General of Police is listed as the complainant.
The charge sheet alleged that between 2021 and 2025, at Agbaja Umumba Ndiuno in Ezeagu L.G.A and other places within the court’s jurisdiction, Mr. Ugwunta held himself out as a recognized chief of Agbaja Umumba Ndiuno Community. The offence is said to be contrary to Section 19(a) of the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap. 151, Revised Laws of Enugu State, 2004.
In Count Two, the document alleged that on the same day, time, and place, the defendant addressed himself as “His Royal Majesty, Igwe and Eze Chukwuemeka Ugwunta of Agbaja Umumba Ndiuno Community.”This is cited under Section 21 of the Traditional Rulers Law and punishable under Section 22 of the same law.
Count Three of the charge alleged that by portraying himself as a recognized chief of the community, the defendant conducted himself in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace. This is said to be contrary to Section 247(d) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. 30, Revised Laws of Enugu State, 2004.
When the charges were read, Mr. Ugwunta pleaded not guilty to all three counts.
The prosecutor, CSP. Onyeka Ekweozor, asked the Court for a date to enable the Police to prove the allegations.
The Court granted the defendant bail with surety, and the matter was adjourned for hearing. The matter was further adjourned till 19th August, 2026 for hearing.
Court records listed Inspector
Godson Orji as the Investigating Police Officer. The matter is being handled at Force CID Annex, Enugu.
The Traditional Rulers Law of Enugu State provides the framework for the recognition and appointment of traditional rulers in the state. Disputes relating to chieftaincy titles are often determined by relevant authorities and, where necessary, by the courts.
Legal experts note that a charge is an allegation and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. The case is expected to proceed according to due process.