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The Okpella community in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State has been thrown into fresh controversy as members of the Ukhomuyio clan staged a protest against the Edo State Government’s planned installation of Mr. Michael Sado as the new Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.
The protesters, led by traditional leaders, elders, youths, women, and members of the physically challenged group from the community, gathered in Benin City to express their displeasure over what they described as a violation of their age-long traditional process for selecting their paramount ruler.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Chief Charles Adogah SAN, the Obodena of Okpella, alleged that the state government disregarded the established customary law guiding the selection of the Okuokpellagbe, which, according to him, grants the exclusive right of nomination to the Ulomunio village of the Ukhomuyio ruling house.
“The process that produced Michael Sado did not involve the legally recognized kingmakers of Ukhomuyio. This action is not only illegal but a breach of our age-long tradition,” Chief Adogah stated.
He further accused government agents of intimidation and harassment, claiming that elders and community members who opposed the process have been subjected to arrests and detention.
“Our people have been harassed, arrested, and detained simply for insisting that due process must be followed in selecting our traditional ruler. This is an affront to justice, equity, and the rule of law,” he added.
The Okuokpellagbe stool has remained vacant since the passing of the late Okuokpellagbe, Alhaji A.Y.E. Dirisu, in February 2019. Attempts to fill the vacant throne have been marred by persistent disputes over rightful succession.
In response to the protest, Edo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Lucky Eseigbe, confirmed that the government had approved the selection of Michael Sado. He dismissed the protests as belated, urging aggrieved parties to seek redress through the courts.
“The state government followed due process in recognizing Mr. Sado. Those who are dissatisfied with the process should approach the courts for legal resolution,” Eseigbe said.
The protesters, however, vowed to continue resisting what they termed an “imposition,” insisting that only the traditionally authorized kingmakers from Komunio village possess the mandate to nominate the Okuokpellagbe.
As tension continues to mount, stakeholders have called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene and ensure that justice and tradition are upheld in resolving the crisis.
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