By Daniel-Nwosu Nohunwan Lucy
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe, has called for peace and warned against all forms of illegal revenue collection by community members, as the Edo State Government works towards a resolution of the ongoing Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan Chieftaincy dispute in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
Speaking at a fact-finding meeting with representatives of both Ikpeshi/Egbigere clan in the Ministry’s conference room in Benin City, Sir (Dr.) Eseigbe emphasized the importance of hearing from both parties in the process of addressing the chieftaincy dispute. He acknowledged that the matter is currently before the Courts and assured that the Government is exploring Alternative Dispute Resolutions (ADR) to achieve an amicable settlement.
The Commissioner noted that the administration led by His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpbebholo is committed to fostering peaceful coexistence within the State, reminding both parties that the chieftaincy stool outlives any individual occupant. He expressed gratitude for the peace maintained by the parties involved and urged that it continued, reinforcing the government’s dedication to resolving the conflict without further disruption to law and order in the region.
In addition, Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe who issued a stern warning against illegal revenue collection by community members which was observed to be fueling the chieftaincy dispute, stated that any individual found engaging in unauthorized revenue collection would face the law, as necessary machinery had been put in place to officially handle such.
The Chieftaincy dispute is between the Council of Chiefs/Elders and Luckman Momodu Odamah of Ugono kindred from Ikpeshi/Egbigere in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area in Edo State.
