Edo Gov’t Directs Okpella Kingmakers To Begin Selection Of New Okuokpellagbe

The Etsako East local government council has officially directed the Okpella Traditional Council and kingmakers to commence the process of selecting a new Okuokpellagbe of Okpella following the dethronement of the former king, Engr. Lukeman Akemokue.

In a letter seen by LEADERSHIP on Wednesday and addressed to the Most Senior Village Head (Daudu) in Okpella and the Okpella Traditional Council, the local government council confirmed that the Edo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs had mandated the commencement of the selection process.

According to the letter signed by the Chairman of Etsako East local government area, Rt. Hon. Solomon Oghuma, the Okpella Traditional Council had already held a meeting on Saturday, April 3, 2025, and fixed Saturday, May 10, 2025, as the date for the selection/election of the new traditional ruler. The process will take place at the Imiokhewa Village Town Hall, Ogute-Oke Ruling Branch of Okpella Clan, in Etsako East local government area.

The LG council also stated that a government representative would be present to witness the proceedings, ensuring compliance with the extant law. The letter emphasised that the directive supersedes any previous instructions on the matter.

Recall that the former Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, Engr. Lukeman Akemokue, was dethroned following an official revocation of his appointment by the Edo State government on the ground of non-compliance with the extant law and traditions.