Concerns over rising kingship disputes in Delta-North dominated discussions, as traditional rulers, legal experts, and community leaders gathered for the inaugural Delta-North Traditional Rulers’ Peace Symposium held at Afro-View Hotel, in Asaba, Delta State.
Delivering the welcome address, Prince (Barr.) Nath Obiokolie, President of the Anioma Peace Advocacy & Development Initiative, described the event as a timely intervention aimed at addressing what he called a “disturbing and imperative reality” confronting communities across Anioma region.
Obiokolie noted that disputes over kingship succession have increased significantly in recent years, driven by economic and political interests, conflicting interpretations of customs, and poorly documented succession processes. He warned that such conflicts have weakened traditional institutions, disrupted socio-economic development, and, in some cases, led to loss of lives and destruction of property.
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The symposium brought together prominent traditional rulers, including the Obi of Ubulu-Uno and 2nd Vice Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Obi Henry Kikachukwu, Obi of Issele-Uku and member of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka, Obi of Ukala, HRM Obi Clement Ejiofor, Obi of Ubulu-Okiti, HRM Obi Michael Isichei, Obi of Egbudu-Akah, HRM Obi Ezeagwuna Nzemeke Okolie 111, Obi of Idumuje-Unor, HRM Obi Charles Anyasi 111, Obi of Ogodor, HRM Obi Sunday Olisenweokwu, Obi of Abala, HRM Igwe Frederick Egbunkonye, Obi of Ashama, HRM Obi Ezechinyelugo, Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko, HRM Obi Nonso Nwoko, Obi of Idumuogo, HRM Obi Samuel Otiegede, Obi of Akumazi, HRM Obi Henry Ezeagwukpo Jegbefume 1, Obi of Ejeme-Aniogor, HRM Obi Anthony Ogboli, Obi of Adonte, HRM Obi Emmanuel Offor, Obi of Ukwu-Oba, HRM Obi Cletus Nkeakam Ochei 1, Obi of Otolokpo, HRM Obi Collins Ezenweali, alongside other members of the Traditional institution, legal practitioners, scholars, and community stakeholders.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Obiokolie lamented the growing division within communities once known for shared heritage and unity. He emphasized that succession disputes have eroded social cohesion and undermined the sanctity of traditional institutions.
He stressed the need for sustained dialogue and sensitization as critical tools for preventing future conflicts, expressing hope that such disputes could eventually become a thing of the past.
The convener outlined various traditional modes of kingship succession in Delta-North, including primogeniture, hereditary systems, rotational arrangements among ruling houses, selection by kingmakers, and nomination processes based on community consensus. He underscored the importance of respecting these diverse customs while ensuring clarity and fairness in their application.
As part of proposed solutions, Obiokolie called for amendments to the Delta State Chieftaincy Law to better reflect recognized succession systems and introduce stricter penalties for violations. He also advocated reducing political interference in traditional institutions, clearly defining the roles of kingmakers, and establishing an independent Succession Monitoring Agency to oversee and enforce adherence to customary practices.
He urged participants to engage in sincere and constructive dialogue, emphasizing that the symposium should mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to peace, justice, and cultural preservation.
“Let this not end as mere words spoken, but as a covenant renewed,” he said, calling for unity in safeguarding the region’s heritage and ensuring stability for future generations.
The symposium is expected to generate actionable recommendations aimed at resolving ongoing disputes and strengthening traditional governance structures across Delta-North.
