South Ibie Chieftaincy Crisis: Chiefs, Youths, and Women Protest Against Edo Government’s Alleged Illegal Actions

The long-standing chieftaincy dispute in South Ibie, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, took a new turn today, as community chiefs, youths, and women staged a peaceful protest against what they described as the Edo State Government’s illegal actions regarding the throne.

The protest was sparked by the purported appointment of Mr. Inusa Umoru Inusa as the Aidonogie (traditional ruler) of South Ibie by the outgoing Edo State government, despite the incumbent king, HRH Alhaji Kelvin Danesi, still occupying the throne.

The protesters, who gathered at the Etsako West Local Government Secretariat on October 14, 2024, submitted legal documents related to the kingship dispute to the local government’s registry for transmission to the council chairman.
They expressed their discontent with the government’s decision, stressing that the chieftaincy is currently held by the Danesi family of the Okhokho ruling house, as per tradition.

Chief Isah Iyamah Dauda, speaking on behalf of the protesters, stated:
“We are here to officially express our displeasure regarding the actions of the outgoing Edo State government in issuing an appointment letter to Mr. Inusa Umoru Inusa, while HRH Alhaji Kelvin Danesi remains the Aidonogie of South Ibie. This action has caused tension in the community, and we want to avoid any potential crisis. We believe this decision was a mistake, and we urge the government to reverse it.”

He further explained that the kingship in South Ibie is rotational between two families, the Danesi and the Ogiator branches of the Okhokho ruling house.

According to Chief Dauda, the Ogiator family has already had its turn, and it is now the rightful turn of the Danesi family, with HRH Alhaji Kelvin Danesi currently on the throne.

Chief Dauda also highlighted that there is a restraining order from the court, which all parties involved are expected to respect until a final judgment is made. He criticised the government’s actions, warning that such interference could lead to unrest in the community.

However, he urged the community, especially the youths, to remain peaceful and law-abiding as they continue to seek justice.

The protest is part of a broader effort by the community to address the kingship tussle step by step, starting from the local government and working through legal channels.