Appeal Court Affirms Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II as Lawful Monarch of Ogwashi-Uku

The Court of Appeal has upheld the status of His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, as the rightful Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, dismissing an appeal that challenged his ascension to the throne.

In its judgment delivered on July 15, 2026, in Appeal No. CA/AS/49/2023: Prince Nathan Okonjo v. HRM Obi Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II & Others, the appellate court dismissed the case in its entirety, reaffirming Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II as the legitimate traditional ruler of the kingdom.

Reacting to the ruling, the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku described the judgment as another judicial endorsement of the monarch’s rightful occupancy of the ancient throne.

The Palace expressed appreciation to its legal team, led by Chief Chike Onyemenam (SAN) and Barrister Chris Chukwuka Ebube, for their role in successfully defending the case.

It also thanked the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom for their prayers, steadfast support and confidence in the traditional institution throughout the legal proceedings.

Following the judgment, the Palace called on residents and indigenes of the kingdom to remain peaceful, united and committed to the continued growth and development of Ogwashi-Uku.

The statement conveying the Palace’s position was signed by the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi.

Obi Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, who ascended the throne in 2019, is a member of the renowned Okonjo family and a brother of former Nigerian Minister of Finance and former Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.