Stakeholders of Amakor community in Orumba-North local government area of Anambra State have absolved their traditional ruler and president-general (PG) Igwe Godwin Ezeilo and Rev. Canon Ifeanyichukwu Ezeike respectively from allegation of illegal sand excavation.

Some members of the community had complained to the Anambra State government that the duo were involved in illegal sand mining contrary to the directive of the state government.

Amakor community is one of the areas where Governor Chukwuma Soludo last year banned sand mining because they were prone to erosion.

Some notable opinion leaders in Amakor who dismissed the allegation against the monarch and the PG included chairman, Nanka Patriotic Union (NPU) Erosion Control Committee, Comrade Emmanuel Ezeokafor; former chairman, Amakor Njikoka Development Union and member of Igwe cabinet, Emmanuel Obiekunie, as well as, the community‘s women leader, Mrs Chinyere Okafor.

They told journalists who visited the community yesterday that those levelling the allegation against the monarch and the PG were „mischief makers“ who are after the king and the town union leader to achieve their group interests not that of the community at large.

Ezeokafor who absolved Igwe Ezeilo and Rev. Canon Ezeike of sand mining allegation said that there is no part of the community sand mining is taking place.

He said “Apart from my position in the committee, I’m the leader of truck drivers in both Anambra and Imo states. Even before our appointments, we’ve been battling erosion in the community.

“Immediately I was appointed, I summoned the entire truck drivers to ensure compliance with the governor’s directive. We’re also working with OCHA brigade to arrest and prosecute violators,” he said further.

Also, former chairman, Amakor Njikoka Development Union and member of Igwe cabinet, Emmanuel Obiekunie said the target of those who accused the monarch was to gain cheap popularity.

“We’re comfortable with the Anambra State government directive on sand mining ban in the community which is erosion-prone. The leadership of Nanka traditional institution and Town Union are willing to implement it to the letter,” he added.