By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE newly-coronated Ohworode of ancient Olomu Kingdom, HRM Albert Akpomudje, SAN, has clarified that no law in Nigeria bars a traditional ruler from practising as a legal practitioner.
Speaking shortly after his installation as the 14th Ohworode in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, the respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria explained that although the demands of the throne may limit his appearances in court, he retains the legal right to continue practising.
Ohworode and his queen
“That is a difficult one,” he said in response to questions from journalists. “First of all, no law prevents me from going to court as a king, and I stand to be corrected.”
He, however, acknowledged that the dignified nature of the Ohworode’s office may influence how frequently he appears in court.
“When you look at the position of the Ohworode, and if I want people to give that position the respect it deserves, then it may be difficult for me to go to court to practise the way I was going before,” he noted.
HRM Akpomudje added that he is considering applying to the Bar Council for an exemption that would allow him to appear only in select high-profile matters.
“I am thinking of applying to the Bar Council to give me an exception so that I can appear in some very high-profile cases at the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.
HRM Akpomudje, his queen and other chiefs
“But so far, no law prevents a traditional ruler who is a lawyer from practising his trade,” he said.
Earlier, Urhobo traditional rulers had renewed their call for defined constitutional roles for Nigeria’s royal institutions, arguing that insecurity would be better addressed if traditional authorities were formally integrated into the nation’s governance structure.
The Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, Urhie I—who spoke on behalf of the monarchs—said traditional rulers are closest to their communities and therefore essential to grassroots peace and security.
“The governor is in Asaba, but I am in my kingdom. We have 774 local government areas in Nigeria. If there is peace in them, traditional rulers make it possible. We desire constitutional duties from the Federal Government,” he said.
He congratulated HRM Akpomudje on his ascension, describing it as a cultural honour and a blessing to the Urhobo nation, especially given the monarch’s distinguished legal career and national standing.
Archbishop of Bendel Province,Bishop(Dr.) Odiboroghene Cyril Odutemu arriving at the venue
The Archbishop of the Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, Bishop (Dr) Cyril Odiboroghene Odutemu, also praised the new monarch, noting that he is the third Anglican to ascend the ancient throne.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Olomu for their acceptance and support of Anglican members within the kingdom.
“We are indebted to the Olomu people and shall continue to pray for the growth and wellbeing of the kingdom,” the cleric said.
Dignitaries at the Event
The ceremony attracted an impressive array of personalities, including serving and retired judges, legal practitioners, and members of the Nigerian Bar Association (Warri and Udu branches) led by Othadua Okpakpor Esq and John E. Odohisi Esq.
Also present were Chief Thompson Okpoko, SAN; Mr Charles Ajuyah, SAN, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice; and former Delta State Chief Judge, Justice Smith.
Stonix News reports that members of the Federal Government College Old Boys Association and the Edo College Old Boys Association were also in attendance, alongside the Unu-Okpe of Okpe Kingdom, Chief Michael Affe; Barr. Obriks Uloho; and Chief and Chief (Mrs) McDonald Ugbewanko.
The Uduruvwie of Uvwie Kingdom, Chief (Mrs) Awinoron; Chief Simon Asite, National Financial Secretary of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU Worldwide); Justice and Mrs Shakaro (rtd); Barr. Akpomudiare Oruma; and Clement Djebah also graced the occasion.
Chief Akpofure SAN (right) in a handshake with Chief (Dr.) Charles Edosomwan SAN (left), while NBA Warri Chairman, Othadua Okpakpor watches on
Other notable attendees included Chief (Dr) Charles Edosomwan, SAN, the Obasuyi of Benin Kingdom; John Obwah; members of the Anglican Church; the Anglican Adams Preaching Society (AAPS); and a cross-section of distinguished guests.
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