Group Rejects Obaseki’s Appointment Of Prince Edward Umole As Okpe-Ukpi

The Ogbona Diaspora in the Americas Corporation, a non-profit organisation representing Ogbona indigenes in the United States and Canada has called on the Executive Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, to immediately revoke the appointment of Prince Edward Umole as a Village Head (Okpe-Ukpi) of Ogbona in Aviawhu Clan.

This is just as the group noted, that the issuance of this appointment letter was done in utter disregard for the timed-honored customs and traditions of ascending the Okpe-Ukpi traditional stool and more so while the matter is already in Court.

The Corporation in a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Atty Philip Orbih, he noted that the appointment done on April 12th, 2024, has “sparked tension in our community with potential for outbreak of violence and the breach of peace.”

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He said , “The Ogbona Diaspora Association of the Americas is deeply concerned about this development in our community and is urging the Governor to take immediate action to forestall the breakdown of law and order and restore stability in the community.

“We believe that the Governor as the Chief Security Officer of the State will elevate the need for peace and stability above partisan politics and allow the Court to decide the issues before it without doing anything that is capable of plunging our peaceful community into crisis”, he added.

He further noted that the Ogbona Diaspora in the Americas Corporation is committed to working with the government and other bodies in maintaining peace and order in the community, adding that the Corporation believes the issue of the Okpe-Ukpi will be resolved judicially and judiciously by the court.

“We passionately and urgently appeal to the Executive Governor of Edo State to immediately revoke the appointment letter dated April 12, 2024, issued to Mr. Eddy Umole. This appointment has not only disrupted the harmony of our community but also stands in stark opposition to the time-honored customs and traditions of Ogbona

“The current situation poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of our community. Immediate action is required to prevent any potential outbreak of violence and to ensure the well-being of all residents”, he concluded.