Nigerian Gov suspends traditional ruler over kidnapping

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the indefinite suspension of Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area, over rising insecurity in his domain.

The announcement was made through a statement issued by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor. The suspension follows a disturbing wave of kidnappings and killings that have rocked the community in recent times.

According to the statement, the state government views the traditional ruler’s inability to curb the growing insecurity under his watch as unacceptable.

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The crisis reached a boiling point after the death of a palace chief, the Late John Ikhamate, in a recent violent incident.

In connection with the matter, the monarch’s secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has been arrested, further fueling tension and calls for justice among residents.

“Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom, Agenebode, Estako East Local Government Area of Edo State, over recent cases of incessant kidnapping and killings in his domain.

“Already, his secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has been arrested by the relevant authorities, following a recent incident that led to the death of a palace chief, Late John Ikhamate.

“The suspension of the traditional ruler is indefinite,” the statement read.