A High Court has criticised the decision to issue a recognition certificate to a monarch-elect in an Anambra community while a legal dispute over the throne is still ongoing. The court expressed shock that such an important document was given out despite clear knowledge that the matter is already before the court. According to the judge, the move undermines the judicial process and creates unnecessary tension within the community.

The court noted that the rushed certification could worsen the leadership crisis and cause further division among community members. It stressed that all parties must respect the rule of law and wait for the final judgment before making appointments or issuing any form of official recognition. The judge also warned that ignoring pending litigation can lead to avoidable conflicts.

Legal observers say the court’s reaction highlights the need for due process in traditional leadership matters, especially in communities where succession disputes often cause unrest. They believe government officials must act with caution to avoid actions that could be interpreted as favouring one side of a dispute. The case continues to draw attention across the state as residents await the next hearing.

The court has insisted that its authority must be respected until the matter is resolved. It urged both government officials and community leaders to maintain peace and allow the legal process to run its full course. The judge added that any step taken outside the law will not be recognised when the final judgment is delivered.