Edo Community Appeals to Governor Okpebholo to Resolve Agbede Chieftaincy Crisis
The Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF), a coalition representing the sons and daughters of the Ayuele Clan in Edo State, has issued a formal appeal to Governor Monday Okpebholo, urging his immediate intervention in a tense and escalating chieftaincy dispute that is currently rocking Agbede Community. According to the forum, this crisis erupted following the death of the late Oba M. S. Momodu, with the Agbede Chieftaincy Stool becoming the focal point of a prolonged and contentious succession battle that threatens local stability.
Court Ruling and Alleged Defiance
After the passing of the late monarch, the Federal High Court delivered a significant ruling on January 12, 2026, which mandated that succession to the throne must strictly follow seniority among the sons of the deceased king. However, the ASF has accused one Shayawu Momodu and his supporters of acting in open defiance of both this legal judgment and established traditional protocols. In a statement issued yesterday and signed by 15 prominent community members, including former Edo State House of Assembly member Zak Momoh and Executive Director of the Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education, Ibrahim Zikirullahi, the forum detailed serious allegations of misconduct.
The coalition asserts that Shayawu installed himself as Oba prematurely, before the Certified True Copy of the court judgment could be properly implemented and enforced. Furthermore, they claim that Shayawu and his followers forcibly entered the Palace, which had been securely locked pending lawful installation procedures, and have continued to occupy it despite a high court injunction that explicitly restrains him from parading as Oba.
Threats to Public Peace and Security
ASF has characterized these actions as not only criminal trespass and contempt of court but also as a blatant disobedience to lawful authority. The group warns that such behavior poses a direct and imminent threat to public peace and security within the community. They emphasize that their members have worked tirelessly to calm local youths and prevent any form of self-help or violent retaliation, yet the continued provocation and illegal occupation of the palace have created a highly volatile and dangerous atmosphere.
The forum stated, "The continued provocation and illegal occupation of the palace have created a highly volatile atmosphere, undermining our efforts to maintain order and prevent unrest."
Call for Government Action
In response to this escalating situation, the Ayuele Solidarity Front has called on the Edo State government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, to take decisive action. They are demanding the immediate eviction of Shayawu Momodu from the palace and the enforcement of compliance with all lawful directives, including the court's ruling on succession. The group stresses that timely intervention is crucial to avert potential violence and restore legal and traditional order in Agbede Community.
This appeal highlights the ongoing challenges in managing chieftaincy disputes in Nigeria, where legal rulings and traditional customs must often be balanced to ensure community harmony and security.
