The Edo State Government has annulled the traditional appointments in Ososo Kingdom and the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, citing the need to restore peace, stability, and due process in the communities.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, the decision followed a review of disputes surrounding the traditional leadership of the affected areas.
By the directive, the appointments of Mr. Bamidele Obaitan, previously designated to the vacant stool of Ososo Kingdom, and Zaiki Luckman Odamah III, formerly recognised as the ruler of the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan, have been revoked with immediate effect.
The government also announced the appointment of Mr. Nicholas Odamah as the Regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan, pending the final determination of the rightful occupant of the throne. Odamah is to oversee the affairs of the clan in a custodial role and ensure compliance with government directives.
For Ososo Kingdom, the elders of the four quarters (Unukhus), the Council of Chiefs, and other community leaders have been instructed to consult and present a consensus candidate for the vacant stool through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in line with established customs and rotational principles.
Both Obaitan and Luckman Odamah have been directed to surrender all government properties, instruments of office, and materials in their possession to the Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Council without delay.
The government urged residents of Ososo, Ikpeshi, Egbegere, and the entire Akoko-Edo Local Government Area to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that security agencies have been mobilised to maintain peace and protect lives and property.
The statement added, ““The Edo State Government remains committed to fairness, justice, and the preservation of traditional values while ensuring unity across all communities.”
