A fresh succession dispute is brewing in Edumoga Chiefdom of Okpokwu Local Government Area, Benue State, with elders and youths of Ingle Edumoga Community calling on Governor Hyacinth Alia to intervene over the appointment of the next District Head.
The community alleges that attempts are being made to bypass the long-established rotational arrangement for the traditional stool, insisting that it is Ingle Edumoga’s turn to produce the next District Head.
In a petition addressed to Governor Alia and copied to traditional and political leaders in the state, the stakeholders accused the Ad’Okpokwu, Chief James Okefe, of disregarding the customary zoning formula by allegedly favouring another ward that had previously occupied the position.
The three-page petition was jointly signed by the Chairman of Ingle Community, Gabriel Ugboyi Ogwuchea, the National Matron/Women Leader, Elizabeth Ochada, and the National Youth Leader, Engr. Joseph Otobo.
According to the petitioners, the rotational principle has over the years ensured fairness, equity and peaceful coexistence among communities within Edumoga Chiefdom.
They argued that historical records show that every eligible ward has taken its turn, making Ingle Edumoga the next in line to occupy the traditional stool.
The stakeholders further claimed that the position was unanimously affirmed during a meeting of ward heads held at the palace of the 3rd Class Chief of Edumoga, Chief Ojo Emmanuel Ochechema, where, they said, participants agreed that Ingle Edumoga should produce the next District Head.
The petition warned that any attempt to deviate from the established arrangement could trigger unnecessary tension and undermine the peace currently enjoyed in the chiefdom.
The community also alleged that the succession process had been compromised through financial inducements involving some traditional authorities. However, it did not provide evidence to support the allegation.
The petitioners urged Governor Alia to suspend any move to install a District Head from another ward, investigate the history of the rotational arrangement and direct the traditional council to uphold what they described as the established principle of equity.
While reaffirming their commitment to peace, the stakeholders cautioned that continued disregard for their demand could deepen discontent among residents, stressing that their appeal is aimed at preserving harmony rather than creating division within the chiefdom.