Delta Deputy Governor Summons Dethroned Monarch of Olomoro Kingdom

The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, has called for a meeting with the sacked traditional ruler of Olomoro community, Joseph Isaiah Isike Edekere 1, following his dismissal by the Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, Friday Ovoke Warri. The meeting, which is scheduled for December 18, 2024, at the Government House in Asaba, will address allegations of gross misconduct and inciting conflict within the community.

On December 10, 2024, Warri issued a letter terminating Isike’s position as the Odio-logbo of Olomoro, citing his lack of respect for government, alleged misconduct, and divisive actions in the community.

The letter, which was signed by Warri, ordered the former monarch to cease presenting himself as the Odio-logbo and to refrain from attending any traditional council meetings at the local or state level.

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In the letter, Warri accused Isike of fostering unrest in Olomoro and acting with “high-handedness in leadership without due recourse to the effects on the people of Olomoro Kingdom”.

The dismissal, which sparked widespread outrage, led Monday Onyeme to intervene.

On Wednesday December 11, the office of the Deputy Governor invited Isike and his legal representative to meet with Onyeme to discuss the issues raised in a petition concerning the unrest in Olomoro.

The petition was submitted by the law firm Ikhide Ehigbelua & Co, highlighting concerns over Isike’s leadership.

Meanwhile, local sources have raised further allegations against Ferguson Onwo, a member of the Delta State House of Assembly representing Isoko South Constituency 2, accusing him of supporting the dismissed monarch.

Onwo, an indigene of Olomoro with vested interests in the community due to oil contracts, is alleged to have influenced the Ministry of Women Affairs and Community Development to issue certificates to loyalists, thereby creating a parallel leadership structure in Olomoro.
Onwo has denied the accusations, stating that he has no involvement in the matter and that his only concern is restoring peace to the community.

The situation in Olomoro remains tense as investigations into the allegations continue.