By Milcah Tanimu
The House of Representatives has rejected a motion requesting Federal Government intervention in the chieftaincy dispute in Okpella, Edo State. The motion, introduced by Mr. Dekeri Anamero, representative for the Etsako East/Etsako West Federal Constituency, aimed to restore peace to the conflict-ridden area.
Okpella has experienced violence since Governor Godwin Obaseki controversially crowned Lukman Akemokue as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella two weeks ago. This decision has faced backlash from various factions within the community, leading to clashes and loss of life in one of Edo State’s industrial hubs, known for its cement production.
While some residents support Akemokue’s appointment, others oppose it, resulting in violent altercations last week. This division threatens the peace and stability of the area, prompting calls for intervention.
During the plenary session, Anamero expressed his deep concern for the lives lost in Okpella, urging Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa to deploy security forces to restore order. He accused Governor Obaseki of imposing Akemokue’s installation on the community despite widespread dissent, suggesting that the governor’s actions were politically motivated, especially in light of his party’s poor performance in the last governorship election.
“The violent reaction to the crowning of Lukman Akemokue has resulted in several fatalities. The Federal Government must urgently address the ongoing unrest in Okpella,” Anamero stated.
However, the motion met significant opposition from fellow lawmakers. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas struggled to secure a seconder for the motion, which is necessary for advancing the debate. Awaji-Inombek Abiante of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) opposed the bill, accusing Anamero of disrespecting senior political figures, including Governor Obaseki.
