18 Contestants Jostle For Okpella Throne
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin7
The battle for the Okuokpellagbe stool in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government, of Edo State has produced 18 contenders from three rival kindreds.
Former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s appointment of Lukman Akemokue sparked the current struggle. Kingmakers rejected his selection, arguing it violated traditional procedures.
Now, the OKU, Alumuye, and Agbogah kindreds have each presented candidates.
The OKU kindred boasts Chief M.O. Aliu, Ediawe Jeremiah Roland, Akemokue, and Dr. Abdulmalik C.Y. Ofemile.
The Alumuye kindred backs Prince Micheal Sado and Haruna Iremia Sunny, among others.
The Agbogah kindred supports Haruna Ahmed, Philip Odion Magnus, and Balogun Samuel Oneshuagbe.
As the competition heats up, the community remains divided with hopes high that a new Okuokpellagbe will restore peace.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has promised a fair traditional process to select a new ruler. “My administration is committed to peace and due process,” he assured.
