KINGSLEY EBERE
A new chapter has opened for the Igbo community in Lagos State with the formal beginning of Eze Frederick Nwajiagu’s reign as Ezendigbo Gburugburu 11.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the development comes after the Directorate of State Security, DSS, dismissed a petition filed against his recent coronation, clearing the way for him to assume the traditional leadership role without legal hindrance.
The petition had stalled the recognition process. According to reports, an undisclosed group submitted the petition to the DSS, alleging irregularities and raising objections to Nwajiagu’s emergence as the successor to the late Eze Hyacinth Ohazuruike, who passed away last year. The group was described by sources close to the matter as acting out of envy and jealousy over Nwajiagu’s growing influence within the Igbo people in Lagos.
Eze Nwajiagu honoured the DSS invitation promptly and respectfully. He appeared before the Service in Lagos alongside his legal counsel. The move was seen as a sign of respect for constituted authority and a demonstration of confidence in the legitimacy of his coronation process.
After reviewing the claims, the DSS was said to have dismissed the petition on merit. Investigators found no credible evidence to support the allegations, and concluded that the objections were not substantial enough to warrant further action. Nwajiagu was allowed to leave without conditions, effectively closing the case.
The dismissal is being interpreted as the end of the controversy surrounding the throne. Some community leaders said that the decision of the DSS removes the last major obstacle to his recognition and allows the Igbo community in Lagos to move forward as a united front under a single traditional authority.
Nwajiagu’s position has already received backing from Ndigbo organizations including market men, women and stakeholders in Lagos State who participated in the coronation rites and subsequently recognized him as the legitimate Ezendigbo Gburugburu 11.
Speaking after the DSS decision, Eze Frederick Nwajiagu called for peace and unity among Ndigbo in Lagos. He emphasized that the stool of Ezendigbo Gburugburu is not a tool for division but a platform for promoting the welfare, culture, and interests of Igbos living in the state.
He urged all factions to set aside personal differences and work collectively.
“This is a time for healing and building,” he said. “Our strength in Lagos lies in our unity. I am open to dialogue with everyone who wants the progress of Ndigbo.”
The late Eze Hyacinth Ohazuruike held the title until his passing last year, after which consultations began in order to select a successor who could represent the diverse Igbo population in Lagos. Nwajiagu’s emergence followed months of deliberation among stakeholders, traditional rulers, and community leaders across the state.
With the DSS matter now resolved, attention turns to his agenda for the community. Supporters expect him to focus on conflict resolution, cultural preservation, and strengthening ties between Igbo residents and host communities. For many, the dismissal of the petition marks not just the start of a reign, but a chance to consolidate the Igbo voice in Lagos under one recognized traditional leadership.
