The battle for the traditional ruler’s throne in Umuzegem Village, in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, has driven a young man into hiding. More than a year after the brutal murder in July 2015 of the last Eze (king), Finian Nwadike, by suspected assassins at his country home, his son, Vincent, is allegedly being hunted by suspected assailants.
Sources who pleaded for anonymity said that the son had already escaped at least two assassination attempts, and reportedly told close associates that the circumstances surrounding the investigation of his late father’s murder, said to be politicised as a result of the bitter tussle over who gets to be the next king, are making him fear for his life.
Another source alleged that a strong contender for the throne has vowed to eliminate the late king’s son, and stated that unfortunately the police may not be able to protect him, just as they could not protect his murdered father.
Nwadike’s whereabouts remain unknown.
