Delta Govt Flays Absence Of Monarch, Orders Immediate Return

By Ayodele Oni

The Delta State Government has condemned proxy rule at Ubulu-Uku, following the absence of the monarch, the Obi of Ubulu-Uku, His Royal Majesty Obi Chukwuka Noah Akaeze.

Government has directed the monarch to return from abroad and resume physical administration of his kingdom.

The directive was issued during a conflict-resolution meeting with members of the Ubulu-Uku Council of Chiefs, convened by the Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor.

Uzor noted that the monarch’s physical presence was necessary for the effective administration of the kingdom and urged him to return promptly and discharge his traditional responsibilities.

He also cautioned the monarch’s uncles, relatives and other persons close to the palace against interfering in the administration of the kingdom.

The Special Adviser advised them to channel their concerns and advice through the appropriate traditional structures to avoid actions that could worsen tensions in the community.

The government also declared null and void the recently conducted online election of the Ubulu-Uku Development Council (UDC).

Uzor said the election contravened the Delta State Regulation of Community Development Associations Law 2021 and relevant guidelines issued by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development.

He directed that a fresh, inclusive election be organised in consultation with the community and under the ministry’s supervision.

The government also overturned Obi’s suspension of the Onishe of Ubulu-Uku, Chief James Asika Onwordi.

Uzor said the suspension did not comply with the statutory procedure for suspending traditional chiefs in Delta State.

The government’s position aligns with its earlier statement that the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Chiefs Law regulates the power to suspend a traditional chief and that the power cannot be exercised outside the prescribed procedure.

Uzor said the interventions aimed to restore order, uphold established traditional structures, and promote peace and stability in Ubulu-Uku.

The decisions followed petitions and counter-petitions regarding the kingdom’s administration and the disputed status of the Onishe and the UDC leadership.