In defiance of a court order from a High Court in Otu-Jeremi, Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori presented the staff of office to the newly installed king of Ewu Kingdom, HRM Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe I. This action unfolded amid protests and crises that erupted following the emergence of Ikolo as the monarch.
The court order, issued by Justice T.O. Uloho, directed parties to maintain the status quo pending the hearing of the application for interlocutory injunction and notice of preliminary objection. The case, involving the quartet of Bernard Awarieta, Olorogun Anthony M. Okagbare, Olorogun Owhofaria, and Evang. Solomon Omotitiri, challenged the legitimacy of the Arhedjo ruling house and the selection process.
Governor Oborevwori, his deputy Monday Onyeme, and others were named in the case (Suit No. HCG/55/2023). Despite the court’s directive, the staff of office was presented by the governor’s representative, Monday Onyeme, amid tight security.
During the presentation, Governor Oborevwori urged the new monarch to uphold justice, fair play, and equity, emphasizing the importance of the traditional institution as a vital partner in societal affairs.
The opposition had previously accused the governor of imposing the new monarch, leading to protests and accusations of imposition. However, the Delta State Chairman of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, A.P. Edariese, commended the governor for the staff of office presentation and advised the king to lead in a manner that satisfies the people and silences dissenting voices.
