The traditional ruler of Umunya in the Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Igwe Kris Onyekwuluje, has alleged that some of his subjects are plotting to kill him.
Onyekwuluje, who spoke to journalists on Wednesday in his palace in Umunya, alleged that his traducers were mostly from the Odumodu quarter of the community.
He said that his life had been threatened several times by such people.
He said the plotters having failed, have resorted to campaign of calumny to tarnish his image.
Some indigenes of Odumodu, comprising mostly women had on Monday protested at the Government House, Awka, over what they called land grabbing, intimidation and indiscriminate arrest by the monarch.
Carrying placards of different inscriptions, the protesters implored the state governor, Willie Obiano to intervene in the matter to stop the monarch from further harassing them.
But speaking to journalists on Wednesday, the monarch said, “I’m not a land grabber. I’m a successful business man with offices in Lagos, Abuja and Anambra State.
“It is not true that I sold their lands. I never did nor got involved. Those, who are saying this are part of those who have been threatening to kill me since 2012 for no reason than jealousy.
“They went and registered a group called ‘Odumodu Ebenabo Improvement Union’, and were selling the properties and lands of Odumedu people.
“On hearing their illegal activities, I stopped them. I have never arrested, or asked the police to do so on my behalf.”
He added, ”They are the ones who are petitioning against the people they think they can oppress. Mine is just to broker peace amongst them.
“Those who are saying that I arrested them are liars. Some people were arrested by the vigilantes for robbery and were handed to the police. Why should I arrest or detain my subjects?
“I have forgiven them several times, but this time they will not go unpunished. My lawyers will soon commence legal action against them”.
