By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The suspended traditional ruler of Neni in Anoacha Local Government Area of Anambra State, His Royal Highness, Igwe Damian Ezeani, has tendered unreserved apology to the State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo over his conferment of chieftaincy title on Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah.

The monarch had during the Yuletide period conferred the title of Odenjinji on theSenator representing Anambra South Senatorial Zone, Ifeanyi Ubah

Igwe Ezeani in his apology said that he conferred the title out of ignorance of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Law 2020 as amended.

The Monarch begged Soludo to tamper Justice with Mercy,saying that the governor’s forgiveness will further sustain the already existing peace and unity Neni community is known for since his reign 23 years ago.

Recall that governor Soludo had earlier suspended the Monarch for honouring Senator Ifeanyi Ubah andothers with Chieftaincy titles without the official approval of the state government.

Briefing journalists at his Palace in Neni on Wednesday, Igwe Ezeani said: “I did that out of ignorance. I didn’t know that a law to that effect was amended in 2020.

“Ididn’t award the chieftaincy titles to Senator Ubah and others on political ground as being speculated in different quarters but based on their services to humanity.

“I was shocked when I received the suspension letter from someone via WhatsApp message. Iam presently 73 years old.

“I was coronated as the traditional ruler of the community on 10th May, 2003.

“I am a Catholic, a Knight of Saint Mulumba and the Anambra Central Senatorial District Traditional Ruler Council Chairman. I am not a pompous person.I am a humble person, a man of integrity to the core. I wouldn’t have done that if I had known.

“Since I received the letter, the development has set me thinking.

“I sincerely apologise to whosoever the chieftaincy titles issue has offended to forgive me.

“And also if what I have done violated the State Traditional Rulers Code of Conduct, on behalf of myself, my cabinet members and the entire people of Neni community, I beg the governor to please forgive me,” the monarch appealed.