Edo: Okpebholo sacks traditional ruler after 11 months of appointment

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has terminated the appointment of Mr Nicholas Odamah as Regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state, just 11 months after his appointment.

DAILY POST reports that the governor had, on November 13, 2025, removed the erstwhile traditional ruler of the clan, Zaiki Luckman Momodu Odamah III, and appointed Nicholas Odamah as regent.

A statement issued at the time by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Umar Musa Ikhilor, said the removal of Luckman Momodu Odamah III followed a review of the circumstances surrounding the ongoing disputes over traditional leadership in the clan and kingdom.

Ikhilor added that the action was taken in the interest of peace, stability and due process.

He subsequently announced the appointment of Nicholas Odamah as regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan with immediate effect, pending the determination of the rightful occupant of the throne.

The statement said the regent was expected to oversee the affairs of the clan pending further decisions.

He was also mandated to oversee the clan's affairs in a custodial capacity and ensure full compliance with government directives.

However, about 11 months after the appointment, the state government, in a letter dated October 20, 2026, announced the termination of Nicholas Odamah's appointment and the restoration of Zaiki Luckman Momodu Odamah III as the traditional ruler of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan.

The letter, signed by Ikhilor, said the decision followed appeals from concerned indigenes of Akoko-Edo and the subsequent confirmation that the dispute over traditional leadership in the clan was already before a competent court of law.

According to the letter, the government decided to review and rescind its earlier decision in view of these developments.

Parts of the letter read: "Consequently, the State Government hereby terminates the appointment of Mr Nicholas Odamah as Regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan and restores the status quo ante his appointment.

“All security agencies have been duly notified of this development and directed to maintain peace, law and order, as well as ensure the protection of lives and property in the affected communities.

“The Edo State Government remains committed to upholding fairness, justice and the rule of law, while preserving the state's traditional institutions and values."

The government urged all parties to remain calm, exercise restraint and allow the judicial process to run its course.

Edo: Okpebholo sacks traditional ruler after 11 months of appointment