Our reporter
Youths in South Ibie, a community in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, are urging Governor Godwin Obaseki to halt actions that could spark unrest over the controversial installation of a new traditional ruler.
They are calling on the governor to allow the court to decide the rightful Aidonogie of the community instead of taking sides in an ongoing dispute.
The unrest stems from the governor’s recent decision to recognize Mr. Umoru Inusa Umoru as the Aidonogie of South Ibie, issuing him a letter of appointment despite the matter being heard in court. The move has caused considerable agitation among the youth, who describe the governor’s action as politically motivated and a direct affront to the judiciary.
The youths, visibly upset by the development, have accused Governor Obaseki of disregarding a court order that mandates all parties to maintain the status quo until a final judgement is delivered. They question the governor’s motives for hastily issuing the Staff of Office to Mr. Umoru Inusa Umoru while the legal battle between him and HRM, Alhaji K. Danesi, Oba Idanesi II, continues at the Benin High Court.
One youth leader, Mr. Isah Braimoh, expressed disappointment in the governor’s actions, stating: “It is very unfortunate that the Chief Security Officer of the state is now the one fostering chaos in our peaceful community. The case is in court, and there’s an injunction on this matter. Mr. Governor should have exercised restraint.”
Braimoh further criticized the governor’s decision, saying, “This is a matter between two brothers, and the court will resolve it. Governor Obaseki’s involvement is politically driven, ill-intentioned, and condemnable.”
The youth have also accused the governor of targeting Oba Idanesi II due to perceived support for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) during the recent Edo Governorship Elections. They see the governor’s actions as part of a pattern of politically motivated attacks on traditional leaders in the state.
In their call for peace, the South Ibie youth urged federal authorities and security agencies to intervene, asking them to ensure that the governor respects the legal process. They advised Governor Obaseki to focus on preparing his handover notes as his administration winds down rather than engaging in divisive actions that threaten the unity of communities.
The youth also called on the incoming governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to prioritize these issues when he takes office, urging him to reverse any divisive decisions affecting traditional institutions.
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