By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
WARRI — Tension is brewing in Udu Kingdom, Delta State, as a group of claimants challenging the process that produced Engineer Michael Orugbo as Ovie of Udu has called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to suspend the planned presentation of a staff of office to the embattled monarch-elect.
Martins Ahweyevu Mukoro PhD
The appeal, made during a press conference held on behalf of Chief Wisdom Ghaghara (JP) and others on Monday by Martins Ahweyevu Mukoro PhD, follows what the group described as “a troubling disregard for the rule of law and the authority of the judiciary” by those pushing ahead with the coronation despite a pending court case.
The claimants, in Suit No. OUHC/133/2025 filed before the Otor-Udu High Court, are seeking judicial interpretation of provisions of the Udu Chieftaincy Law governing succession to the traditional stool.
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They are questioning whether due process was observed by the ruling house and chieftaincy authorities in selecting the new Ovie.
According to them, the law stipulates a 60-day timeframe for the Okporua Ruling House to complete the selection process, but the exercise that produced Engineer Orugbo was allegedly concluded within 30 days — a move they claim runs contrary to established procedure.
“We are not opposed to lawful succession,” the claimants stated, “but it must be done within the confines of the law. Proceeding with a coronation while the matter is before a court of competent jurisdiction undermines judicial integrity and public trust.”
The group expressed dismay that the Delta State Executive Council, at its meeting of 9 October 2025, ratified the disputed selection despite the suit being active before the court.
They noted that while only the 6th defendant, Engineer Orugbo, has entered an appearance and filed a preliminary objection challenging jurisdiction, the state government has gone further to fix 7 November 2025 for the coronation ceremony and staff of office presentation.
“Such an action, if carried out, would be ill-advised and capable of eroding public confidence in the sanctity of the courts,” the group cautioned.
They also disclosed that a formal letter had been written to the Attorney-General of Delta State, appealing to him to counsel the Governor against taking steps that could pre-empt the ongoing judicial process.
“There is still time for the Governor to do the right thing,” the statement added. “Respecting the courts is not just a legal duty but a moral one — essential for sustaining democracy and justice.”
The matter, titled Chief Wisdom Ghaghara & Ors v. Udu Council of Chiefs & Ors, has been adjourned to 18 December 2025 for the adoption of written addresses by the parties’ counsel.
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