Elders of Uwusan Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State have convened a meeting to address rising concerns over leadership structure in the community, particularly, the continued absence of a substantive Odionwere.
At the gathering, the elders categorically stated that Uwusan currently does not have an Odionwere, noting that no successor has been installed since the passing of the last recognised Odionwere, in line with the customs and traditional of Benin Kingdom.
They further clarified that, by extension, no Okaighele has been appointed in the community, stressing that tradition does not permit the installation of an Okaighele without a duly recognised Odionwere in place.
Speaking during the meeting, Pa Imafidon Aimiemeanuwu, the Ozukpkogieva of Uwusan, moved to dispel circulating rumours and misconceptions regarding the leadership structure.
He stated that at no time did he assume the position of Odionwere, nor did he appoint or endorse anyone as Okaighele.
He, however, disclosed that the elders of Uwusan unanimously agreed to appoint Comrade Osaigbovo Ogbomo as a messenger and “eyes” of the elders, as well as to coordinate the youths of the community and ensure effective communication between the elders and younger population.
Also speaking, Pa Ezelekhae Imadomwinyi, the Ozukpkogieha, alongside other elders, reaffirmed that Benin tradition does not accommodate the appointment of an Okaighele in the absence of an Odionwere.
Nonetheless, they stressed the need for proper coordination among the youths to maintain order and unity within the community.
To that end, the elders unanimously agreed that Comrade Ogbomo should serve as a liaison between the elders and the youths, effectively acting as a youth administrative head and channel of communication for community directives.
In a related development, Pa Monday Aigbokhian cautioned youths of the community against engaging in acts capable of disrupting the peace.
He urged them to embrace unity, mutual respect, and collective responsibility in order to sustain harmony in Uwusan.
The elders, while reaffirming their commitment to peace and traditional order, appealed to the Benin Palace to intervene and provide direction on the proper steps toward filling the leadership vacuum in the community.
“We have no Odionwere, and we beg the Palace to direct us,” the elders emphasised.