Group rejects removal of monarch in Edo

Concerned residents of the Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State have voiced their objection to the removal of Regent Nicholas Saliu Odamah III and the subsequent reinstatement of Lukeman Momodu Odamah III as the traditional ruler of their clan. Governor Okpebholo had announced the removal on November 13, 2025, appointing Nicholas Odamah as regent in the interim while the rightful occupant of the throne was determined.

However, the governor reversed his decision on October 20, 2026, reinstating Lukeman Momodu Odamah as the traditional ruler. The government claimed that the decision was made with the aim of maintaining peace, stability, and due process, and that the dispute was already in court. The indigenes' coordinator, Ms Peggy Agbo, called on Governor Okpebholo to reconsider the removal of Regent Odamah III, citing the relative peace that had existed during his regency and warning that the decision could exacerbate tensions.

She emphasized that the community had expressed their objection to the governor and the State Executive Council, and had also taken the matter to court. Ms Agbo urged the relevant authorities to intervene promptly and resolve the dispute in a peaceful and lawful manner. Lukeman Momodu Odamah III responded, stating that the government's actions were in accordance with the law and the customary traditions of the people.

He affirmed that the case was before the court and that the protesters' efforts could not alter the customs and traditions of their community. He advised the protesters to await the court's decision.