Reinstatement: Edo Monarch Thanks Gov Okpebholo, Declares Kingdom Off-Limits to Cultists and Kidnappers

From Moshood Karim

The reinstated traditional ruler of South Ibie Kingdom in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, His Royal Highness Alhaji Kelvin Danesi, Oba Idanesi II, has expressed profound gratitude to the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, following his formal reinstatement as the legitimate Aidonogie of South Ibie.

At a press conference held on Thursday, Oba Danesi hailed the decision by the Edo State Executive Council, which declared that the traditional stool of South Ibie was never vacant, thereby nullifying the controversial appointment of Umoru Inusa Umoru by the previous administration led by Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

The resolution, issued by the Council, reaffirmed the legitimacy of Oba Danesi’s reign and overturned the action taken under former Governor, Godwin Obaseki. Oba Danesi described the reinstatement as “a restoration of dignity to the traditional institution and a victory for justice, peace and the rule of law.”

“I wish to begin by expressing my heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the entire members of the Edo State Executive Council, for the gracious and just-released resolution which stated categorically that the stool of the Aidonogie of South Ibie Kingdom was never vacant,” the monarch said.

Oba Danesi pledged unwavering support for the administration’s developmental agenda and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the government in fostering unity, peace, and prosperity in South Ibie.

The monarch also used the occasion to issue a strong warning to criminal elements, declaring South Ibie Kingdom a hostile ground for cultists and kidnappers. He fully endorsed the Edo State Government’s recently passed law targeting properties used for cult-related activities or as hideouts for kidnappers.

“The law is not just a declaration—it is a reality. We fully support this decisive action,” he stated. “South Ibie will not be a safe haven for criminals. Our land will not harbour cultists or kidnappers.”

He warned property owners to ensure that their buildings are not used for illegal activities, adding that offenders would face severe legal consequences including the demolition of such structures and confiscation of the land.

Oba Danesi called on landlords, parents, community leaders and youths to unite against criminality and cooperate with security agencies. He promised to work closely with Governor Okpebholo and other stakeholders to enforce the law and ensure lasting peace in the region.

“This moment of restoration must mark a new dawn for South Ibie,” he declared. “Let us heal from past wounds and embrace unity, peace, and collective progress. The strength of a kingdom lies in the unity of its people.”

The monarch also extended his gratitude to a host of individuals and institutions for their support during the period of his suspension. Among those acknowledged were the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Denis Idahosa; the Oba of Benin, Omon’oba Uku Akpolokpolo; former Governor and Senator Adams Oshiomhole; Minister of Regional Development, Hon Abubakar Momoh; and various officials of the state government.

He particularly thanked his fellow traditional rulers, singling out the Oghiaga of the Three Ibie, Mallam Ali Suleiman, for his unwavering support and prayers.

Concluding his address, Oba Danesi said, “We shall rededicate ourselves to serving South Ibie Kingdom with honour, truth, and the fear of Allah.”

His reinstatement marks a significant turn in a prolonged traditional leadership tussle and sets the tone for renewed cooperation between the South Ibie monarchy and the State government.