The Edo State Government has cautioned residents of Okpella Kingdom against taking matters into their own hands following the removal of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, Michael Eshiorenoya Sado.
Justice O.A. Otamere of the Edo State High Court sitting in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, ruled in favour of Sado’s removal.
The court also reinstated Lukeman Oghehemhimhe Akemokhue, who had previously been dethroned, as the legitimate Okuokpellagbe.
In response, the state government, through the Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Festus Ebea, disclosed that the Attorney-General has initiated an appeal process alongside a request for a stay of execution of the judgment.
He further urged all concerned parties to preserve the existing situation in order to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
“Let it be stated clearly that any act of self-help, forceful takeover, intimidation, or disruption of the traditional institution in Okpella by any party whatsoever is illegal, intolerable, and will attract the full weight of the law.
“The Edo State Government will therefore not tolerate any attempt to bypass the judiciary or undermine its authority as a result.
“All stakeholders, community members, and groups within the Okpella community are hereby advised to stay calm, maintain peace, avoid provocative actions, and allow the judicial process to unfold without obstruction,” he stated.
Ebea added that security agencies have been placed on high alert to respond to any potential unrest, stressing that the government will take firm action against individuals or groups who attempt to disturb public peace or endanger lives and property.
Reacting to the ruling, the spokesperson for the Okpella Traditional Council, Hanson Aimofumeh, called for calm but expressed disagreement with the judgment, stating that it would not stand.
He revealed that the matter is being taken to the Court of Appeal to determine whether Lukman Akemokue forfeited his claim by not earlier contesting his removal through the State Executive Council, as stipulated by law.
“My appeal to the good people of Okpella is to remain calm and vigilant as all necessary legal remedies have been invoked to ensure that this blatant misinterpretation of the law is reversed.
“The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella has instructed our team of lawyers to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this naked miscarriage of justice.
“I will continue to update the people of Okpella, the business community and indeed, friends of Okpella around the world, on any further developments.
“Our people are advised to go about their daily activities without any fear of molestation. All security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of lives and property within the community and beyond,” he added.
