Ayogwiri: Ogieneni Slams Critics, Warns Against Attacks on Traditional Institution

UZAIRUE, EDO – His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kadiri Imonikhe Omogbai, the Ogieneni of Uzairue, has strongly defended the appointment of Bello Inaboya as the new Community Head of Ayogwiri-Uzairue in Etsako West Local Government Area, dismissing widespread criticisms and allegations of financial inducement as unfounded and malicious.

In a detailed address during a meeting with the leadership of Uzairue Sons and Daughters (USD) at his palace, the revered monarch provided a step-by-step account of the succession process following the death of the late Chief Braimah Okhumeode Inaboya. He reaffirmed his commitment to justice, due process, and the preservation of Uzairue’s traditional institutions.

The controversy erupted after the appointment of Bello Inaboya, with critics alleging that the decision ignored the wishes of the broader Ayogwiri community. Some speculated that the Ogieneni had received ₦15 million to influence the outcome. The situation intensified following verbal attacks by Afashio-born social media commentator “General Koboko.”

Addressing these claims directly, the Ogieneni outlined how the process began when members of the late chief’s family approached the palace seeking a successor from their lineage.

A competing claim emerged from Sumaila Eshiemogie, who asserted that the headship belonged to the Eshiemogie family.

To resolve the dispute, the monarch consulted four recognised elders representing Ayogwiri’s four quarters: Sule Igenegbai, Idonigie Onoku, Abdullah Momodu, and Zuma Eguaide.

The elders unanimously affirmed that the stool belongs to the Inaboya family, settling the inter-family dispute.

The contention then shifted within the Inaboya family over the preferred successor. When the same elders were reconvened, opinions were divided: two supported Inaboya Amidu who is the first son of the late chief, while the other two favoured Bello Inaboya, the last son.

Faced with this division, the Ogieneni invited the Inaboya family to present a collective position. The family unanimously endorsed Bello Inaboya.

Inaboya Amidu later visited the monarch in Abuja seeking support but was advised to reconcile with his family.

Despite being given time, he reportedly failed to secure family backing and instead filed a legal action.

The monarch subsequently approved Bello Inaboya based on the family’s unanimous presentation.

“The recognised traditional authorities of Ayogwiri unanimously affirmed that the stool should remain with the Inaboya family. Thereafter, the Inaboya family itself collectively endorsed Bello Inaboya. My decision was guided entirely by these consultations and by the wishes of the legitimate custodians of the community’s tradition,” the Ogieneni stated.

He categorically rejected the ₦15 million bribery allegation, describing it as “false, baseless, and malicious.” While acknowledging that customary royal gifts are occasionally presented during visits, he said he directed palace members to keep such items to avoid any perception of bias.

“I categorically reject the allegation that I received ₦15 million. I am not a ruler who can be induced or influenced by money to compromise justice or tradition,” he declared.

On the attacks by “General Koboko,” the Ogieneni recalled previously summoning the commentator’s family and the Community Head of Afashio after initial insults.

The family apologised, and he had urged restraint for the sake of peace. He expressed disappointment at the resumption of attacks and warned of appropriate lawful consequences.

The monarch commended USD, the United Muslim Youth Association of Nigeria (UMYAN), and other groups for their solidarity, stating that efforts to protect the dignity of the throne would receive his full support.

He concluded by calling for unity among Uzairue indigenes at home and in the diaspora.

“Uzairue is one united kingdom and its progress and development remain a collective responsibility. Let us therefore join hands in unity to advance meaningful discussions and initiatives that will promote the growth, peace and prosperity of our land,” the Ogieneni said.

The development is expected to shape ongoing discussions around traditional succession in the region, with many watching to see how the situation evolves.