The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, has issued a stern warning to village heads (Diokpa Ogbe) that they risk losing their positions if they fail to attend three consecutive Asagba-in-Council Executive meetings.
This warning comes in the wake of the suspension of Diokpa Diali, who repeatedly disregarded calls to return from Lagos to assume leadership of his village despite multiple notifications.
The monarch delivered this message when the spokesperson (Onu Diokpa) of Ogbeogo, Ogbueshi Chukwuma Ndah, accompanied by other stakeholders, brought the suspended Diokpa Diali to the palace to meet with the Asagba.
Prof. Azinge emphasized that village leadership positions in Asaba are not casually assigned but filled through a rigorous process due to the significant responsibilities involved. He stressed that anyone chosen must demonstrate both readiness and capacity to effectively lead their community.
"I have nothing personal against suspended Diokpa Diali. My interest is to have him play his role as the Head of the Ogbeogo village, which I insisted must not be by proxy, for the greater good of the community," the Asagba stated.
The traditional ruler acknowledged Diali's return and directed him to settle down, engage with key stakeholders in his village, and fully assume his leadership responsibilities. Following this, Diali would need to report back to the Asagba for consideration of lifting the suspension.
Prof. Azinge noted that Diali's case should serve as a warning to other Village Heads who have been irregular in attending the Asagba-in-Council Executive meetings, possibly because they do not reside in the community.
In his response, the suspended Diokpa explained that his delayed return was not intentional but due to health issues. He assured the Asagba that he had now fully returned to perform his duties.
This development highlights the increasing emphasis on accountability and active participation in traditional governance structures across Delta State.
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