On Saturday March 1st, His Royal Highness (HRH) Eze Henry Ugochukwu Okere, the traditional ruler of Mkporobo Ndoki Autonomous Community in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, was taken into custody by security agencies. The arrest comes amid allegations of misappropriation of community resources and assets.
According to reports, Eze Okere is accused of unlawfully accessing a government health center, removing medical equipment intended for public use, and relocating these items to his private residence. Among the recovered items were a freezer and a generator designated for the health facility.
Further allegations suggest that the traditional ruler diverted federal government palliatives distributed through the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. These palliatives reportedly included a truckload of food items, corrugated iron sheets, cement, large foam mattresses, and other goods valued at over ₦50 million.
Eze Okere also faces accusations of illegally selling community palm fruits without following established protocols. He was arrested alongside two other individuals from the community.
These developments have sparked concern among community members and stakeholders, leading to calls for a comprehensive investigation to ensure accountability and restore public trust.
