Youths from Ogbe-Obi Village in Delta State have called for the reinstatement of what they describe as their ancestral right to produce the Obi, or traditional ruler, of the Onicha-Olona community. According to them, the existing succession arrangement, known as Okpala-bu-isi, was introduced later and undermines their historic position as the community’s “King’s Village.”
One of the village’s prominent indigenes, reggae musician Kandy Sea, said the disruption of this traditional right dates back to the period of British colonial rule around 1900. He appealed to both government officials and traditional leaders to step in, stressing that correcting the perceived injustice is essential to safeguarding their cultural identity and promoting enduring peace.
Although they have openly opposed the current succession structure, the protesting youths insisted they would continue to press their demands through peaceful and lawful means. They also voiced support for the local government chairman, Emmanuel Basim Chinye, commending his efforts to sustain harmony in the area.
The group is advocating for constructive dialogue involving village elders, traditional institutions and government representatives. They maintain that a transparent and fair resolution will not only resolve the dispute but also reinforce unity and preserve the cultural heritage of Ogbe-Obi.
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