By Ebenezer Adurokiya Warri
The Palace of the Ovie of Great Idjerhe Kingdom, His Royal Majesty King Obukohwo Monday Arthur Whiskey, has suspended six chiefs for acts of gross insubordination, describing a recent press conference and street protest in Otorho-Idjerhe as “unauthorised and misleading.”
Speaking at a press briefing in the King’s palace, the Otota, Chief Uzzi Onosia James Obriki, said the Traditional Council of Chiefs faulted the actions of some chiefs in Idjerhe Central Oguedion for going public without first consulting the Ovie-in-Council.
“Matters of such importance must be discussed in the Palace with all three Oguedions present,” the statement stressed.
The Palace also dismissed allegations that Idjerhe had been neglected in road development, reeling out completed projects under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, including HRM Late Jeremiah Agbamisa Road, Iyasere Uzzi Gabriel Emeje Road, Igbinosa Road, Chief Oyibo JP Road, and Uyo Road. “It is unfair to say our land has been abandoned when development is visible on our streets,” Chief Obriki stated.
A five-man committee set up by the Council had investigated the press conference addressed by Chief Solomon Odemero Ojariafe, Unuevworo of Idjerhe Central Oguedion, which reportedly triggered unrest and youth protests in the kingdom. The committee’s findings indicted him for instigating a boycott of a Palace meeting and threatening curses on attendees.
Consequently, the Palace announced the suspension of Chief Ojariafe alongside Lucky Emefe, Michael Onakposegha, Benson Esemuede, Udoji Dimiyo, and Ukwu Ese for two years. They are barred from wearing chieftaincy regalia or representing Idjerhe Kingdom in any capacity during the suspension.
On allegations of financial inducement, the Palace clarified: “No money from SEPLAT Energy Plc, NDDC, sand dredgers, cattle herders, or market unions has come to the Palace or the Oguedions. Anyone making such claims should bring evidence.” However, it confirmed that two transformers were donated through Senator Ede Dafinone and Chief John Obukohwo Nani, while SEPLAT scholarships were distributed equitably.
The Palace further commended Governor Oborevwori for his contributions to the kingdom. “From roads to community empowerment, our people have benefited greatly. We thank our Governor and our sons and daughters serving in government, academia, the judiciary, and business,” Chief Obriki said.
Reassuring the people, His Majesty King Obukohwo Whiskey urged citizens to disregard propaganda and remain united. “The voice of Idjerhe speaks from the throne, not from the streets,” he declared, reaffirming the Palace’s commitment to peace, unity, and progress across all 97 communities of the kingdom.
What's your reaction?
