A Magistrate Court in Enugu has arraigned Professor Uchenna Ezemagu, a 50-year-old lecturer at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI), for allegedly fabricating false claims that led to the arrest and suspension of a traditional ruler, Igwe Christopher Okwor.
The professor, alongside three others still at large, faces a two-count charge of conspiracy and providing false information to the police. The case, marked Charge No: MEN/100C/2025, is being heard before Magistrate O.S. Chukwuani at the Enugu North Magistrates’ Court.
According to the charge sheet, the accused allegedly conspired in September 2021 to mislead authorities by falsely accusing several individuals—including Chinonso Okwor, Ifunanya Okwor, and others—of crimes such as cultism, burglary, illegal firearm possession, and attempted murder. These allegations triggered a police investigation and the subsequent suspension of Igwe Okwor by the Enugu State Government.
Professor Ezemagu pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at ₦10 million, with a surety required to be a permanent secretary or equivalent-ranking public official. The case has been adjourned to May 14, 2025, for further hearing.
Barrister Jerry Iheanacho, counsel to Igwe Okwor, hailed the arraignment as a step toward justice, stating that police investigations had already debunked the allegations.
“Our client was wrongfully suspended based on these fabricated claims,” Iheanacho said. “He was accused of demolishing a blind man’s house and even labeled a kidnapper, but the police found no evidence. We urge the state government to reinstate him.”
Igwe Okwor recounted his ordeal, alleging that he was forcibly taken to Abuja in 2021 over the false accusations.
“I was arrested at night, wearing only slippers and shorts,” the monarch said. “The complainants later fled when summoned for questioning. Now, after years of harassment, the truth is coming out.”
Sources indicate that Professor Ezemagu had evaded police invitations for months before being apprehended and charged. The case highlights concerns over malicious petitions and their impact on traditional institutions in Enugu State.
