Okpella leaders praise governor’s action on Lucky Eseigbe’s redeployment, reaffirm opposition to Mike Sado’s appointment as Okuokpellagbe
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, said Eseigbe’s redeployment was a welcome decision that demonstrated the Governor’s responsiveness to community concerns and his readiness to correct administrative missteps.
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According to the group, Eseigbe’s actions during his tenure allegedly undermined Okpella’s traditional structure.
They urged him to view his redeployment as an opportunity to rebuild trust and mend relations with the community, while seeking reconciliation with the ancestors for his alleged role in distorting the town’s heritage.
The statement further advised the former commissioner to place the collective good above personal or political interest, stressing that true leadership means aligning with the Governor’s vision and prioritising public welfare.
Reaffirming their stance, the group restated its opposition to the appointment of Mr. Mike Sado as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, insisting that the decision did not align with the community’s established customs.
“We remain firm in our position that the process of selecting a traditional ruler must strictly follow Okpella’s ancestral customs,” the group declared. “No manipulation or interference from outside Ukhomuyio will be tolerated.”
They lauded the unity displayed by Okpella indigenes both home and abroad, praising spiritual leaders, village heads, and other stakeholders for standing together in defence of their cultural heritage.
“We are grateful to our Itsogwas and Igbidegwas, the Ukhomuyio Council of Village Heads, and our illustrious sons and daughters for their unwavering solidarity. Tradition remains the strongest bond that unites our people,” the statement read.
The group also expressed appreciation to the Governor for approving new teacher recruitment in Okpella, describing it as a powerful gesture of his administration’s dedication to education and community progress.
In conclusion, the Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens urged the Governor to ensure lasting peace in Okpella by reversing Mr. Sado’s appointment and returning the royal selection process to the Ukhomuyio lineage, which they maintain is next in line to produce the Okuokpellagbe according to tradition.
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The Okpella leaders praise governor’s action statement underscores the community’s growing faith in the Governor’s fairness and its resolve to uphold cultural integrity amid political changes.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
