Tension is rising in Agbede community in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State as leaders warn that a prolonged dispute over the traditional throne could escalate into a major crisis if urgent action is not taken.
The Ayuele Solidarity Front raised the alarm in a statement on Sunday urging the state government and security agencies to intervene quickly to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the community.
According to the group the conflict began after the death of the late traditional ruler Oba M S Momodu which triggered a succession contest among his sons over the Agbede chieftaincy stool.
The coalition explained that the matter was eventually addressed in a judgment delivered by the Federal High Court of Nigeria on January 12 2026. The court ruling reportedly affirmed the lawful order of succession based on seniority among the sons of the late monarch.
However the group alleged that despite the judgment a claimant to the throne was installed as the Oba of Agbede before the Certified True Copy of the court decision was obtained and properly implemented.
The coalition further claimed that the claimant and his supporters later forced their way into the Agbede palace which had been locked pending the completion of lawful installation procedures.
It also stated that despite a suspension order issued by the Edo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs as well as a High Court injunction restraining the claimant from parading himself as Oba he has continued to occupy the palace and present himself as the traditional ruler.
The group warned that the continued defiance of court orders and the occupation of the palace have created a tense and volatile atmosphere within the community.
The coalition therefore called on Monday Okpebholo to urgently ensure that all court directives and government orders regarding the chieftaincy dispute are fully enforced.
It also appealed to the Nigeria Police Force to deploy officers to maintain peace in the area while urging the Department of State Services to investigate activities surrounding the dispute.
Leaders of the Ayuele Solidarity Front said they have worked to calm youths in the community and prevent any resort to violence but warned that patience among residents is gradually wearing thin.
They urged members of the Ayuele clan to remain calm and law abiding while awaiting decisive intervention from the government to resolve the chieftaincy crisis and restore peace in Agbede.
Leave a comment