By Jethro Ibileke
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has approved the removal of Zaiki Luckman and Bamidele Obaitanaa from their positions as traditional rulers of the Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan and Ososo Kingdom, both in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.
He said the revocation order followed a review of the circumstances surrounding the ongoing disputes relating to traditional leadership in the clan and kingdom, and was taken in the interest of peace, stability, and due process.
Ikhilor announced the appointment of Mr. Nicholas Odamah as the regent of the Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan with immediate effect, pending the determination of the rightful occupant of the throne.
The state government mandated Mr. Nicholas Odamah to oversee the affairs of the clan in a custodial capacity and ensure full compliance with government directives.
On Ososo Kingdom, the government directed the elders of the four quarters (Unukhus) and the Council of Chiefs to meet, consult widely, and submit a consensus candidate for appointment to the vacant stool of the kingdom.
Ikhilor said the submission of the name of the candidate for appointment shall be made through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs within a timeframe to be formally communicated by the ministry.
He added that the process must reflect the customs, rotation principles, and collective will of the Ososo people.
Meanwhile, the deposed traditional rulers, Bamidele Obaitan and Zaiki Luckman Odamah, have been directed to immediately hand over all government properties, instruments of office, and materials in their possession to the Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Council without delay.
The statement added that all security agencies have been duly notified and directed to maintain peace, law, and order, prevent any breakdown of security, and ensure the protection of lives and property throughout the affected communities.
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