Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has removed the traditional rulers of Ososo and Ikpeshi/Egbegere clans in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, citing ongoing disputes and the need to restore peace and order in the affected communities.
Naijaonpoint reports that the dethroned monarchs are Bamidele Obaitan of the Ososo Kingdom and Zaiki Luckman Odamah III of the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan.
Their removal was disclosed on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikilor, who explained that the decision followed a review of the lingering leadership crisis in both communities.
“The governor approved the revocation of their appointments in the interest of peace, stability, and due process,” Iklor stated.
In a swift move to stabilise the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan, Governor Okpebholo approved the appointment of Nicholas Odamah as Regent.
He is expected to oversee the clan’s affairs pending further decisions.
“Odamah shall oversee the affairs of the clan in a custodial capacity and ensure full cooperation with government directives,” the statement said.
For the Ososo Kingdom, the state government directed the Elders of the Four Quarters (Unukhus), the Council of Chiefs, and other community elders to meet, consult widely, and present a consensus candidate to fill the vacant stool.
According to the state government, the selection process must reflect Ososo’s customs, rotational principles, and the collective will of the people.
“Submission of a consensus candidate shall be made through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs within a timeframe to be communicated formally by the Ministry,” the statement added.
The state government also directed the removed traditional rulers to immediately hand over all government property and instruments of office in their possession.
“Both Bamidele Obaitan and Luckman Odamah are directed to immediately hand over all government properties, instruments of office, and materials in their possession to the Chairman, Akoko-Edo Local Government Council, without delay,” the statement said.
Naijaonpoint learnt also that Luckman Odamah III had recently protested the appointment of Prof. Roland Otaru (SAN) as the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
Though it remains unclear whether this contributed to his removal, the protest reportedly heightened existing political and traditional tensions in the area.
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]