Edo Community Urges Governor to Reinstate Traditional Ruler

Indigenes of Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Edo State, have made an appeal to Governor Monday Okpebholo to reverse the removal of Regent Nicholas Saliu Odamah III and reinstate Lukeman Momodu Odamah III as the traditional ruler. Governor Okpebholo had removed Lukeman Momodu on November 13, 2025, appointing Nicholas Odamah as regent pending the resolution of the throne's rightful occupant.

However, on October 20, 2026, the state government reinstated Lukeman Momodu, citing the need for peace and stability after reviewing appeals from the community and noting the ongoing court case regarding the chieftaincy dispute. Peggy Agbo, the group coordinator, expressed concerns that the government's decision could disrupt the peace enjoyed during Nicholas Odamah's regency.

The community has submitted a written objection to the governor and approached the court to maintain the status quo. Lukeman Momodu stated that the government acted lawfully and advised protesters to await the court's decision.