Edo Community Appeals to Gov Okpebholo Not To Legitimize Akemokue as Okuokpellagbe

From Osazua IMAFIDON, BENIN 

The people of Okpella community in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo state has appealed to the All Progressives Congress (APC) led government of Monday Okpebholo not to legitimize Lukeman Akemokue as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.

The community noted that Akemokue was not only unqualified for the revered seat, but was forced on the community by the immediate past government of Godwin Obaseki as compensation for his infamous role in the administration.

This is contained in a statement by spokesman of the community in Kano state, Mr Aigbojele Omonamo
and made available to newsmen in Benin on Tuesday.

He said the appeal became necessary in order for some aides of the Governor who are unaware of the issue surrounding the Okuokpellagbe seat.

Omonamo condemned a recent writeup by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Fred Itua where he (Itua)  called Akemokue as the Okuokpellagbe.

The spokesman emphasised that Itua needed to be reminded that the  elders and kingmakers of the community had met with the governor over the issue.

"Itua and others aides to the Governor needs to desist from ascribing the revered seat of Okuokpellagbe to Lukeman Akemokue.

"It is a common knowledge that he (Akemokue) was never the choice of the people, he was forced on us and against our wishe. Whom the kingmakers choose is very much  known to everybody.

"One of the infamous thing he did was to use thugs to chase APC supporters away during the just concluded Edo governorship election to prevent Okpebholo from winning his ward.

"We are peace loving people and as such, the people have toe the line of peace, by explaining in details, the contending issues on the Okuokpellagbe seat to the Governor upon assumption of office.

"One  strong APC supporter by name Julius, was a victim of his onslaught where he was inflicted with  injuries with machete. All these were ploy to deny Okpebholo victory in Okpella.

"Yes, that was why he was presented with the staff of office just few days to the end of Obaseki's administration

"The same man is now playing humility and loyalty to the person he never wanted as governor," Omonamo explained. 

Omonamo appealed to the public to desist from ascribing Akemokue to the Okuokpellagbe seat until the matter is settled by the Governor.