The Idjerhe Traditional Council has announced the indefinite suspension of at least 16 chiefs in a decisive move to restore peace, discipline, and respect for constituted traditional authority within the Idjerhe Kingdom of Delta State.
Among those affected is Solomon Ojariafe, who has been stripped of his title as the Unugbrogodo of Idjerhe Central Oguedion. Other suspended chiefs include Michael Enakposegha, Super Abonoko, Wilfred Agidi, Samson Atanaga, Lucky Akpore, Odoji Dimiyo Emakuneyi, Mathieu Abobo, James Otugoma, Henry Otubu, Lucky Emoefe, Omonigho Enakposegha, Edafe Ikewu, Fidelis Sago, Mathew Adegor, and Eugene Adegor.
The council said the suspensions followed findings of gross misconduct, insubordination, maladministration, and alleged financial impropriety, describing the actions as harmful to peace and contrary to the long-established customs of the kingdom.
According to the council, the crisis largely centres on Solomon Ojariafe, who allegedly failed to account for more than ₦25 million said to have accrued to the Idjerhe Central Oguedion account during his time in office. He was also accused of acts considered sacrilegious and of openly challenging the authority of the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom.
The Crown (Otota) of the kingdom, Uzzi Onosia James Obriki, addressed journalists on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Udurhie I, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Monday Whiskey, and members of the Idjerhe Traditional Council.
Obriki alleged that Ojariafe directed chiefs under the Idjerhe Central Oguedion to boycott the Ovie’s fifth coronation anniversary, held between January 15 and 18, 2026, describing the move as a serious affront to the throne and a violation of traditional norms.
He further revealed that invitations sent out on January 8 to the kingdom’s three Oguedions Idjerhe Central, Onyobru, and Boboroku were rejected by Chief Ojariafe, allegedly on what the council described as a weak and culturally unjustified objection over nomenclature.
Read also: Urhobo Must Reclaim Ancestral Heritage, Political Relevance — Nani
