OK Movement Draws Line Over Opi Monarch’s Suspension, Demands Protection of Democratic Space

OK Movement Draws Line Over Opi Monarch’s Suspension, Demands Protection of Democratic Space

The movement calls for due process, protection of political freedom and equal treatment of citizens in Enugu

ENUGU, NIGERIA — September 25, 2026: — The Obi–Kwankwaso (OK) Movement, Enugu State Chapter, has called on the Enugu State Government to review the suspension of the traditional ruler of Opi Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Igwe William Ezugwu, Eze Ogbazalla III, following his reception of NDC presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi at his palace.

The movement said the circumstances surrounding the suspension have generated concern, particularly because the monarch had publicly received, prayed for and offered royal blessings to the presidential candidate of NDC Mr. Peter Obi during his visit to the palace.

In a statement signed by its Chief Press Secretary, Ani Ifeanyi Moses, the OK Movement said it recognises the authority of government institutions to enforce applicable laws but stressed that such powers should be exercised transparently, fairly and in accordance with due process.

The movement urged the state government to ensure that the allegations against the monarch are addressed through the appropriate administrative and legal procedures, without compromising the dignity and independence of the traditional institution.

According to the statement, traditional rulers should be able to receive visitors and political leaders from different political backgrounds without such engagements automatically being interpreted as political allegiance or disloyalty.

Political Differences and Democratic Participation

The OK Movement also expressed concern over what it described as the need to preserve an environment in which citizens and political organisations can participate peacefully in lawful democratic activities.

The group maintained that political differences should be handled through democratic engagement, dialogue and the rule of law rather than through actions that could create fear or discourage citizens from exercising their constitutional rights.

“Enugu belongs to every citizen, regardless of political affiliation. Traditional rulers must be able to interact with political leaders across party lines, while citizens and political organisations must be able to participate in lawful political activities without intimidation,” the statement said.

The movement further called for equal protection for all political parties, political movements and citizens engaged in legitimate activities across the state.

Call for Transparent Investigation

The OK Movement also referred to recent incidents involving political gatherings in Nkanu West and called for transparent investigations into any allegations of violence or disruption.

It said anyone found responsible for unlawful acts should face the appropriate legal consequences, irrespective of political affiliation.

The movement emphasised that the preservation of peace and democratic space is a responsibility shared by government institutions, political organisations, traditional institutions, security agencies and citizens.

OK MOVEMENT’S POSITION

° The movement called on the Enugu State Government to:

Review the suspension of HRM Igwe William Ezugwu in accordance with applicable law and due administrative process.

Respect the dignity and independence of traditional institutions.

° Ensure that traditional rulers can interact with political actors across party lines without undue political interpretation.

° Guarantee equal protection for citizens and political organisations participating in lawful activities.

° Ensure that allegations concerning political violence or disruption are investigated transparently.

° Uphold fairness, transparency and due process in the exercise of governmental authority.

The movement said the forthcoming electoral period should provide an opportunity for citizens to consider competing ideas, policies, programmes and records in a peaceful democratic environment.

“The coming elections must be a contest of ideas, policies, records and the confidence of the people—not fear, violence or institutional pressure,” the statement said.

The OK Movement reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful and lawful democratic participation, saying it would continue to use legitimate civic, administrative and legal channels to raise issues concerning political freedom, justice and due process.

The statement concluded with an appeal for all stakeholders in Enugu State to protect the democratic space and maintain peace as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Enugu must not become a state where political differences attract consequences. Democracy must be protected—not threatened,” the statement said.