A nonviolent protest by women against the planned coronation of Clement Ikolo as their king has put the old Ewu-Urhobo kingdom in Delta State’s Ughelli South Local Government Area under strain.
The demonstrators fiercely reject Ikolo’s candidacy, claiming that his selection stems from improper influence and connections and that he is not an indigenous of the Ewu-Urhobo kingdom.
Holding signs that said, “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, do the right thing” and “Ewu is a peaceful kingdom, we don’t need crisis,” the women marched in opposition, calling on the Orodje of Okpe kingdom to step in and pressuring Governor Oborevwori to rethink his choice. They promised to use all of their resources to oppose the imposition of Ikolo.
The demonstrators’ statement, which stressed their rejection of Ikolo’s installation, cited his lack of legitimacy and His Royal Majesty Awarieta Bernard’s legitimate claim to be the monarch.
They recounted their previous protest in February, which resulted in the brutalization of protesters and the death of one of their members.
“We will resist the installation of Clement Ikolo as our King because he is not the chosen person and he is not the right person to occupy the throne.
“The Delta State government is being misled through the influence and connection of Clement Ikolo, who believes he can buy the throne with his money.
“We have a crown King in the kingdom of Ewu and he is His Royal Majesty Awarieta Bernard, but not Clement Ikolo,” the statement reads.
Christiana Ofuedje, the spokesperson for the protesting women, appealed to Governor Oborevwori to uphold the age-long tradition of allowing the community to choose their king. She emphasized that Ikolo’s non-indigenous status renders him ineligible for the throne.
The protesters sought the intervention of the Orodje of Okpe, the Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, urging him to advise Governor Oborevwori to cancel the planned presentation of staff of office to Ikolo. They warned of potential unrest and disruption if their pleas are ignored.
In response, the Unukpe of Okpe Kingdom, Okakuro Michael Afe, assured the protesters that their message would be conveyed to the Orodje upon his return. He appealed for calm and patience while the matter is addressed.
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