Irri Kingdom, Isoko South local government area, Delta state is currently embroiled in a royal succession dispute.
This may not be unconnected with a letter from the Directorate of Chieftaincy Affairs, Delta state, dated 21st November 2024, and signed by Henry Demesi, with the title, “Presentation of Staff of Office” addressed to HRM Odio Simon Odhomo and copied to Isoko South LGA Chairman.
According to the letter, the Delta state government has approved the 5th of December, 2024, for the official presentation of office staff to Odhomo with allegations of external interference and disregard for age-old traditions.
Reacting to the move, HRM, Eloho Jacko, Amatavo II, the Odion-Logbo of Irri Kingdom, said it was an apparent disregard for their traditions and an affront to the kingdom’s sovereignty.
In a formal statement, Jacko, traditionally crowned on July 21, 2023, accused external actors of attempting to impose an illegitimate Odhomo from Okpe Isoko on the throne of Irri.
According to the king, this move blatantly violates the community’s customs, entraining the kingmaking process exclusively to the Omonde family.
He emphasised that Odhomo is not from the ruling Ibogidi family and needs a legitimate claim to the throne.
He described the move to impose Odhomo as a calculated attempt to exploit the kingdom’s natural resources, particularly its crude oil wealth.
The king also expressed concern over alleged financial influence being used to obstruct legal and administrative processes. Despite submitting petitions to law enforcement agencies and pursuing legal action, he noted that progress has yet to be stalled, leaving the kingdom vulnerable to further destabilisation.
The king further accused external forces and individuals, including the community’s president, Adonis, and Idu Amadhe, of misleading the Deputy Governor of Delta State, calling on him to respect the traditions of Irri and not support the installation of an outsider as king.
“This move blatantly violates the community’s customs, which entrusts the kingmaking process exclusively to the Omonde family.
“The rightful kingmakers, led by the Osewo of the Omode family, have affirmed my position as the legitimate king. Any other claim is fraudulent and unacceptable to the people of Irri.
“I am confident the Deputy Governor, if fully informed, would not allow such an injustice in his community. We appeal to his sense of fairness and the government’s duty to uphold justice,” Amatavo said.
King Jacko called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to take decisive action by issuing him the Staff of Office as the rightful king and preventing further escalation of tensions.
“We are a peaceful community, but we will not sit idly while our traditions and rights are trampled upon. This issue is not only about tradition but also about justice and respect for our heritage,” he stated.
The monarch appealed to well-meaning Nigerians, peace committees, and leaders across Isoko land to defend Irri’s identity and sovereignty.
“This is not just about Irri; it is about ensuring that no community’s traditions are undermined. We must preserve our heritage and prevent external forces from destabilising our peace,” he warned.
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