Members of the Ukhomuyio community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, on Friday staged a protest against the planned installation of Mr. Michael Sado as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.
The protesters described Sado’s selection as a violation of the Declaration of Customary Law regulating succession to the traditional stool, alleging that he was nominated by a group without legal authority.
Speaking during the protest, the Obodeanokpella of Okpella, Chief Charles Adogah, said the declaration vests the power to nominate a new monarch in a specific branch of the ruling house, supervised by village heads.
He accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of endorsing a flawed process, claiming several community elders had faced harassment, arrest, and detention for opposing the selection.
He appealed to Okpebholo to suspend what he termed the “unlawful coronation” of Sado as well as the cancellation of the process that led to his appointment.
He said the Komunio village of the Oteku ruling house should be allowed, without interference, to carry out its traditional and lawful responsibility of selecting a candidate to the exalted throne of Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.
He added, “The selection process proceeds strictly in line with the Declaration of Customary Law regulating the selection.
“All arrests and harassment of peaceful innocent community members should cease immediately and those arrested be released unconditionally without delay.
“Your Excellency, your kinsman, Professor Ambrose Folorunsho Alli, is remembered with reverence and pride in Okpella. We pray that your name, too, will be etched not in controversy, but in honour. Let your legacy be one of justice, not of injustice dressed in political convenience.
“To all Okpella sons and daughters, we say remain calm, but resolute. Remain peaceful, but firm. Our culture, our voice, and our heritage must not be silenced.”
Edo Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lucky Eseigbe, said the protest against the installation was ‘too late’.
Eseigbe stated that the governor approved Sado’s selection being the nominee from the community.
He urged the aggrieved Ukhomuyio Community members to seek legal action.
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