Kogi Elders Urge Governor To Resolve Mopa Chieftaincy Dispute

The Concerned Mopa Senior Citizens (CMSC) has appealed to Kogi State governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for intervention in the ongoing chieftaincy dispute over the Elulu of Mopa stool in Mopamuro local government.

During a press conference in Abuja, CMSC board member and Oojusasu of Mopaland, Chief Reuben Famodile, alongside High Chief Michael Ajayi, called on the governor to rein in certain officials with vested interests in the case.

They contended that the current holder of the Elulu of Mopa stool, Chief Muyiwa Ibeun, was improperly appointed following a rushed screening by a faction of the Mopa Traditional Council (MTC) in 2023, following the death of Oba Julius Joledo. This process allegedly disregarded established guidelines and the long-standing rotational arrangement that has maintained peace in Mopaland for nearly two centuries.

Chief Famodile highlighted that Mopa comprises four ruling houses: Ajerin and Aidan from the Odole Community and Ipatia and Ilegemo from the Iloke Community. He asserted that Chief Ibeun does not belong to any of these houses, emphasising that the MTC’s actions undermine traditional customs.

Despite the ongoing court case, he accused some Kogi State officials of promoting Chief Ibeun’s image by involving him in state functions. Famodile stated, “We urge the governor to ensure neutrality and allow the court to address this matter.”

The CMSC members expressed their commitment to transparency, stating that they will continue to voice their concerns until justice is served, asserting their dedication to the peace and progress of Mopa for current and future generations.