By Egbe Attah, Otukpo
Following the lingering chieftaincy dispute in Ugboju District in Otukpo Local Government of Benue State, the Och’Idoma, Agabaidu Elias Obekpa, has advised elders and stakeholders of the district to respect and recognize the culture and tradition of the land.
Agabaidu Obekpa, who gave the advice on Monday at Ogoli – Ugboju while addressing the people during a visit, regretted the happening in the area.
The Och’idoma said it is a taboo for a beaded chief in Idoma kingdom, after undergoing all traditional rites, to be removed and another appointed while he is still alive without committing a sacrilege.
He urged elders of the land not to allow politicians to destroy the tradition of the people and called for peaceful resolution of issues affecting the community.
The Oyachaba K’Idoma and Ogigomebe K’Ugboju, Amb. Dickson Akor and elders of Ugboju in their separate remarks, reaffirmed total support for the Obande K’Ugboju, Chief Solomon Apochi and thanked the paramount ruler for his visit to Ugbojuland to talk peace to them, stressing that his visit has brought peace to Ugboju.
In his address, the Och’Ugboju, Chief Solomon Apochi, expressed joy over the visit, stressing that the entire Ugboju appreciate his Royal Highness’s visit to the land.
Meanwhile the Och’Otukpo Odu, Dr John Eyimonye has condemned in entirety the act by some disgruntled youths who allegedly threatened workers of Rock Bridge, the construction company responsible for the rehabilitation of the federal road passing through Otukpo.
In a statement issued by secretary of the Otukpo District Traditional Council and Ejila of Ai-Okopi, Chief Udeh Adole, the Och’Otukpo expressed shock that after several years of anguish occasioned by the deplorable condition of the road, a right thinking Idoma person will rise against the construction of the road.
He said everyone whose property was affected by the road construction has been fully compensated by the federal government; hence those who have issues regarding such compensations should follow due process.
The Och’Otukpo therefore warned any group masquerading as Idoma youths to desist from any act inimical to the growth and development of the Idoma nation as the law will deal with them.
The meeting which was attended by all security outfits in Otukpo, had in attendance Chiefs Aikwucheyi Alama, Audu Obodumu, Inalegwu Abounu, Adah Ella and Onah Edeh.
