BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has dismissed the traditional rulers of Ososo and Ikpeshi/Egbegere clans in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following disputes over succession and leadership legitimacy in both communities.
The affected monarchs are Bamidele Obaitan of the Ososo Kingdom and Zaiki Luckman Odamah III of the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan.
Their removal was announced on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in a statement issued by Secretary to the State Government, Umar Iklor.
According to the statement, Okpebholo approved the revocation of their appointments “in the interest of peace, stability, and due process,” after reviewing the controversies surrounding the traditional institutions in the two communities.
The governor also approved the appointment of Nicholas Odamah as Regent of the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan.
He will oversee the clan in a custodial capacity and ensure compliance with government directives.
For the Ososo Kingdom, the governor instructed the Elders of the Four Quarters (Unukhus), the Council of Chiefs, and the Elders of Ososo to meet, consult widely and submit a consensus candidate for appointment.
The selection process must reflect “the customs, rotation principles, and collective will of the Ososo people,” according to the statement.
The submission will be made through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs within a timeframe to be formally communicated.
“Both Bamidele Obaitan and Luckman Odamah are directed to immediately hand over all government properties, instruments of office, and materials in their possession to the Chairman, Akoko-Edo Local Government Council, without delay,” the statement added.
It was gathered that Luckman Odamah III had previously protested the appointment of Professor Roland Otaru (SAN) as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, though it remains unclear whether that dispute played a role in the government’s decision.
