The chieftaincy dispute in Umuogbo-Agu Autonomous Community, Igbo-Eze North LGA, Enugu State, has taken a new turn after it was revealed that one of the key contenders, Obiora Simon Ngwu, was dismissed from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) in 2012 over an admission scam. The confirmation came via an official letter from ESUT’s Registrar, Ambrose Ugwu, dated January 26, 2026, following a Freedom of Information request.

Ngwu was employed as a Library Assistant in 1982 but had his appointment terminated on September 13, 2012, after investigations linked him to illegal admission practices that led to the unlawful enrolment of over 500 students, who were later expelled. The revelation has added tension to an ongoing court case involving rival Igwe candidates, with Chief Sylvester Ali accusing community leaders of forging the constitution to manipulate the selection process.

Ali claims he is the duly elected Igwe of Umuogbo-Agu and insists the rotation of leadership among the four traditional quarters of the community, including his own quarter Umunasa, was being ignored by some factions. He warned the court that attempts to impose another Igwe without following the recognized community constitution could destabilize the area, urging intervention to protect peace and order.

Another community leader, Gilbert Ugwu, also accused members of the community living abroad of meddling in local affairs, blocking leadership appointments, and using proxies to influence the Igwe selection. Attempts by DAILY POST to obtain Ngwu’s comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages regarding the ESUT dismissal and the ongoing dispute.