Abia State has been rocked by a scandal following the arrest of HRH Eze Henry Ugochukwu Okere, the traditional ruler of Mkporobo Ndoki Autonomous Community in Ukwa East Local Government Area (LGA), over allegations of criminal diversion of public resources meant for community development.
The embattled monarch was reportedly apprehended by security operatives on March 1, 2025, after being accused of forcefully breaking into a government-owned health center and carting away vital medical equipment, including a generator and a freezer, to his private residence.
According to security sources, a raid on HRH Eze Okere’s residence led to the discovery of the stolen medical items meant for the community health center. In a further shocking twist, he was also accused of diverting a truckload of federal government palliatives coordinated by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. The diverted relief materials included food items, corrugated iron sheets, cement sheets, large foam mattresses, and other goods collectively valued at over ₦50 million.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the palliatives, originally designated to provide relief to vulnerable members of the community, were mysteriously redirected to unknown locations under the traditional ruler’s supervision. Residents, who had been expecting the distribution of these relief items, were left in shock when they learned that the materials had been allegedly taken for personal use or illicit sale.
In addition to the allegations of diverting essential public resources, HRH Eze Okere is also accused of illegally selling palm fruits belonging to the community without following due procedures. Reports indicate that this unauthorized transaction, carried out without the consent of the relevant local authorities, resulted in significant financial losses for the community.
Sources close to the matter claim that these allegations had been festering for some time, with members of the community growing increasingly frustrated over the perceived abuse of power by the monarch. His arrest, therefore, was met with mixed reactions, with some seeing it as long overdue justice while others expressed shock and disbelief at the unfolding events.
HRH Eze Okere was arrested alongside two other individuals from the community, whose identities have not yet been disclosed. The security agencies handling the case have assured the public that a full investigation is underway to determine the extent of the alleged misappropriation and to bring all culprits to justice.
As of press time, there has been no official statement from the Abia traditional ruler’s palace or his legal representatives regarding the allegations. Meanwhile, the people of Mkporobo Ndoki and neighboring communities continue to demand accountability and transparency, urging authorities to ensure that justice is served.
