From Ebohon Joan
The Edo State Executive Council has approved the appointment of former Senator Francis Alimikhena as the Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom in Etsako East Local Government Area.
The approval was granted on July 6, 2026, ahead of his coronation, according to a statement by the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee, High Chief Tony Akiotu.
Alimikhena represented Edo North Senatorial District in the Senate from 2015 to 2023. During his first term in the 8th National Assembly, he served as Deputy Chief Whip. After his re-election in 2019, he chaired the Senate Committee on Customs, Excise and Tariff.
According to the statement, Governor Monday Okpebholo will present the staff of office to the new traditional ruler on August 22, 2026, as part of the coronation ceremony.
Akiotu said the event is expected to attract prominent sons and daughters of Uwanno Kingdom from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The appointment marks a new chapter for Alimikhena as he takes on the traditional leadership of the Uwanno Kingdom.
