8th November, 2024
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has ended a royal dispute spanning over two decades by presenting the staff of office to Umoru Inusa Umoru as the newly crowned Aidonogie of South-Ibie Kingdom in Etsako West Local Government Area.
The ceremony, marked by jubilation, brings peace to a community divided by longstanding legal battles between two ruling families.
Represented by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Monday Osaigbovo, Obaseki stated that the state government was compelled to enforce the Supreme Court’s judgment, confirming Umoru’s appointment in line with tradition, customs, and applicable statutes.
The chieftaincy dispute began in 1997 following the death of the previous Aidonogie, I.M.J Umoru. The position, historically rotated between two branches of the Okhokho Ruling House—Oghiator and Danesi—was assumed by Umoru, who belongs to the Oghiator branch.
The governor urged the newly installed monarch to use his position to foster peace and collaboration within South-Ibie and ensure active community involvement in Edo State’s development initiatives.
The presentation ceremony, held at Oshiozekha Primary School, Iyakpi, South Ibie, drew a notable crowd, including members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Dr. Lois Adams, Barrister Paschal Ugbome, and Chairman of Etsako West LGA, Muhtzu Marvelous. Royal dignitaries present included the Otaru of Auchi, HRH Aliru Momoh, and HRH D.Y.E. Kanoba, among others.
In his acceptance speech, Umoru expressed gratitude to Obaseki for upholding the rule of law and pledged to promote unity, tradition, and progress in South-Ibie.
Reflecting on his ascension, Umoru shared three lessons: unity in just causes is resilient, tradition and arrogance cannot coexist, and peace is achieved through sincere unity.
“I will lead with wisdom and integrity, remaining true to our heritage,” he affirmed, adding that his rule would focus on security, tradition, and community welfare.
He also highlighted the need for youth empowerment programmes to address unemployment, a key factor in reducing poverty and crime in the region.
In a symbolic gesture, Umoru appointed key figures to assist in the administration of the kingdom, including Ustazi Yunus Jafar Sadiq as Chief Imam, Chief Cyprian Akhalu as village head of Ughiekha, and Alhaji Habib Ekhalefo as the Daudu of Odibie Village.
As South-Ibie embraces this new chapter, Obaseki and the newly crowned Aidonogie call on all residents to support the monarchy in fostering peace, unity, and development across the kingdom.
