Edo govt warns against resorting to self-help over removal of Okuokpellagbe of Okpella

By Jethro Ibileke

The Edo State Government has warned the people of Okpella kingdom against resulting to self-help, following the removal of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella Kingdom, Michael Eshiorenoya Sado.

Justice O.A. Otamere of Edo State High Court sitting in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area of the State, had on Thursday, March 26, 2026 sacked the Mr. Sado.

In his stead, the court reinstated formally dethroned Lukeman Oghehemhimhe Akemokhue as the rightful Okuokpellagbe.

Edo Government in a statement by the Commissioner for Public Safety and Security in the State, Festus Ebea, noted that the State Attorney-General has already commenced the process of appeal and a stay of execution of the judgement.

He advised all parties to maintain the status quo, to avoid any breakdown of law and order.

“Let it be stated clearly that any act of self-help, forceful takeover, intimidation, or disruption of the traditional institution in Okpella by any party whatsoever is illegal, intolerable, and will attract the full weight of the law.

“The Edo State Government will therefore not tolerate any attempt to bypass the judiciary or undermine its authority as a result.

“All stakeholders, community members, and groups within the Okpella community are hereby advised to stay calm, maintain peace, avoid provocative actions, and allow the judicial process to unfold without obstruction,” he stated.

Ebea said security agencies have been put on red alert over any untoward development, threatening that the state government will act decisively and without hesitation against anyone who attempts to interfere with public order or threaten the security and harmony of the community.

Reacting to the judgment, the spokesperson to the Okpella Traditional Council, Hanson Aimofumeh, while urging calm, said the judgment cannot stand the test of time.

Aimofumeh said the Court of Appeal is being approached to interpret and determine whether Lukman Akemokue slept on his right, when he failed to challenge his removal as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, by petitioning the State Executive Council, as provided for by law.

“My appeal to the good people of Okpella is to remain calm and vigilant as all necessary legal remedies have been invoked to ensure that this blatant misinterpretation of the law is reversed.

“The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella has instructed our team of lawyers to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this naked miscarriage of justice.

“I will continue to update the people of Okpella, the business community and indeed, friends of Okpella around the world, on any further developments.

“Our people are advised to go about their daily activities without any fear of molestation. All security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of lives and property within the community and beyond,” he added.