The people of Ukhomuyio community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State have called for the cancellation of the process that led to the emergence of Mr. Michael Sado as the next traditional ruler of the community.
According to reports, Michael Sado was allegedly selected on May 10, 2025, at Imiokewa Village as the next Okuokpellagbe of Okpella to succeed the late Alhaji A.Y.E Dirisu, who died on February 19, 2019, at the age of 82 years.
At a press briefing in Benin City on Friday, the community appealed to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to immediately suspend the coronation of Michael Sado as the monarch of the community that hosts BUA and Dangote cement companies. The coronation is scheduled to take place in July 2025.
Community Alleges Flawed Selection Process
Speaking on behalf of the community, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Charles Adogah, appealed that the Komunio village of the Oteku ruling house should be allowed, without interference, to carry out its traditional and lawful responsibility of selecting a candidate for the exalted throne of Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.
In a press conference titled, "The Unlawful Appointment of Michael Sado as the Okpella of Okpella, Tyranny and Illegal Arrest of Okpella Sons and Daughters," the community alleged that the selection process was flawed and not in line with the declaration of the customary law regulating the selection of Okuokpellagbe.
"Instead of respecting the procedure outlined in the declaration which vests the power of nominating the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella on the appropriate component branch of the appropriate ruling house superintendent by the village head, a different script was followed," Adogah stated.
He further explained that Sado "was neither selected by Ukhomunyio village, nor presented to the kingmakers, nor installed according to tradition. He was simply anointed by a group that has no legal recognition in the declaration. There was no consensus, no valid meeting of adult males of Komunio village, no formal approval by a constitutionally recognized kingmaker."
Appeal to Governor Okpebholo
The community reminded Governor Okpebholo that they supported him during the election, stating that they "stood under the sun on September 21, 2024, to cast their votes" with the hope that they would not be "repaid with humiliation, anguish, and pain."
Adogah, who is the Obodeanokpella of Okpella, told the Governor that his kinsman, late Professor Ambrose Alli, the former Governor of the old Bendel State, is remembered with reverence and pride by the people of the community.
"We pray that your name, too, will be etched not in controversy, but in honour. Let your legacy be one of justice, not of injustice dressed in political convenience," he appealed.
The community expressed initial optimism following the April 30, 2025 press release from the Edo State Government, which promised that appropriate modalities would be followed in selecting a new Okuokpellagbe. However, they claim that the process was undermined.
Allegations of Harassment and Arrests
The community also raised concerns about alleged harassment and arrests of community members who have spoken out against the selection process.
"Even more disturbing is the brutal repression of our people who have dared to speak out. Our brothers, sisters, and elders are being harassed, arrested, and detained on the alleged orders of the State or those acting on its behalf in Okpella," Adogah claimed.
He called for the immediate and unconditional release of those allegedly arrested and demanded an end to the continued arrests and harassment of peaceful, innocent community members.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding traditional leadership selection processes in Edo State and raises questions about the role of government in traditional affairs.
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