***Urge Edo Government to Intervene in Okpella Stool Crisis
A group, Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens, has described the recent visit of Mike Sado to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a welcome development, urging the Edo State Government to urgently intervene in the controversy surrounding the leadership of the Okuokpellagbe stool in Okpella.
In a statement released on Thursday, the group commended the anti-graft agency for what it described as its consistent commitment to tackling corruption and upholding accountability across the country.
According to the group, the EFCC’s sustained actions against corruption have helped reassure Nigerians that some public institutions remain committed to integrity and the rule of law.
“We applaud the EFCC for its integrity.
The commission’s actions over the years are the reason many Nigerians can still say that not all institutions in the country are weak,” the statement read.
The group expressed optimism that the ongoing investigation involving Mike Sado would produce a thorough and credible outcome.
The Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens said the investigation should clarify several issues surrounding the Community Development Agreement (CDA) involving mining companies operating in Okpella.
Citing provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, the group stated that host communities are legally empowered to establish Community Development Agreements with mining companies operating in their areas.
However, the group raised questions about the legal authority under which Mike Sado allegedly participated in the formation and management of the CDA.
Among the issues raised are whether:
The law empowers a traditional ruler to preside over the establishment of a CDA.
A traditional ruler can participate in the day-to-day administration of the agreement.
The structure of an existing CDA account can be altered unilaterally.
A traditional ruler can legally become the sole signatory to a host community’s CDA account.
The group maintained that the people of Okpella are informed and responsible citizens who expect transparency and accountability from their traditional leadership.
The statement further argued that even where a CDA expires, its provisions allow it to remain operational until a renewal process is concluded. Making any unilateral alteration of its financial structure questionable.
The group also emphasizes allegations concerning the sale of community lands without the consent of the rightful owners.
To illustrate its concerns, the group likened the situation to a scenario where a state governor becomes the sole signatory to a treasury account under the pretext of executing public projects.
“This would amount to misappropriation and illegal diversion of funds,” the group stated, adding that transparency and established procurement processes must guide the management of community resources.
According to the group, the primary responsibilities of a traditional ruler include serving as a custodian of culture and tradition, maintaining peace within the community, and acting as a bridge between government and the people.
It alleged that recent developments surrounding the Okuokpellagbe stool have raised questions about the proper management of community affairs.
The group also appealed to students in the community to remain calm, revealing that a legal process is underway to compel BUA Group to publish the names of beneficiaries of a 400-slot scholarship scheme for public scrutiny following complaints from members of the community.
The group paid tribute to the late Alhaji A. Y. E. Dirisu, former Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, describing him as a leader remembered for humility, tolerance, and inclusive leadership.
According to the statement, the late monarch governed with patience and maintained cordial relationships across the community without resorting to intimidation.
The group also criticised comments allegedly made in a recent video by Prince Shuaibu Dirisu, urging him to emulate respected figures in the community such as Prince Abdul Dirisu, particularly in demonstrating empathy, fairness, and integrity.
Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens concluded by calling on the Edo State Government to review the process that produced Mike Sado as Okuokpellagbe, alleging that the process contravenes all provisions of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of Edo State.
According to the group, addressing the issue would help restore the historical legitimacy of the Okuokpellagbe stool and safeguard the future of the Okpella community.
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