M. E. OGUNDARE, J.S.C. (Delivering the Leading Judgment): The plaintiff (who is respondent in this appeal) was, at one time, the Eze (traditional ruler) of lzombe Autonomous Community in the Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta Local Government area of Imo State. He was so recognised by the Military Governor of Imo State by a certificate of recognition dated 8th day of July, 1979. Following allegations made against him by some members of the community which led to disturbances in the area on 12/12/87, the Military Governor in exercise of the powers conferred on him by the Commission of Inquiries Law Cap 24 Laws of Eastern Nigeria Traditional Rulers and Autonomous Communities Law, No.11 of 1981 appointed a Panel of Inquiry to investigate the allegations, particularly whether:
"1. The actions of Eze Nwauwa in the events that led to the disturbances in lzombe on 12th December, 1987 amounted to grave misconduct and in particular whether,
(i) Eze Nwauwa was irreconcilably in confrontation with lzombe Devel…