Okpebholo Okpella kingship interference claims denied as Edo governor insists selection followed due process and warns against unrest

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo said his administration did not interfere in the selection of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, insisting that due process was strictly followed.

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Governor Okpebholo stated that the emergence of Mike Olorunfemi Sado as the traditional ruler was conducted transparently by kingmakers in line with existing chieftaincy laws and edicts.

The position was conveyed in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, who described allegations of interference as “deliberate mischief.”

The statement emphasised that since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has refrained from meddling in traditional matters or imposing leaders on communities.

It added that this approach has helped restore peace in areas previously affected by chieftaincy disputes.

According to the government, the selection process of the Okuokpellagbe followed due procedure, with a majority of kingmakers endorsing the outcome.

Aggrieved parties had challenged the process in court, but the case was dismissed recently for lacking merit.

The government also noted that the traditional ruler was officially presented with the staff of office during a coronation held on July 5, 2025, in accordance with the law.

It described ongoing claims that the stool remains vacant as irresponsible and misleading.

Governor Okpebholo further stated that the majority of Okpella residents support the leadership of the current monarch, citing inclusiveness in decision-making processes.

He issued a firm warning to individuals or groups attempting to incite unrest, stating that the government would take decisive action.

Authorities, he said, are already prosecuting murder cases linked to the dispute and will pursue all offenders to their logical conclusion.

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The governor added that anyone seeking to exploit community tensions for personal gain would face the full weight of the law, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and order.