The Uzere Kingdom in Delta State, led by Chief Lugard Eboh, the Odiologbo of Uzere, has issued an urgent plea to the Governor of Delta State, calling for immediate intervention to prevent an escalating crisis within the community. In a letter addressed to the governor, Chief Eboh highlighted concerns over potential unrest due to recent actions by the community’s traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty Isaac Udogri I (JP), the Ovie of Uzere.
Chief Eboh, the second-in-command and Chief Adviser to the king, expressed alarm at recent meetings held by the Ovie, during which attempts were allegedly made to overturn crucial decisions taken at the August 2024 Uzere Conference. According to Chief Eboh, one of these attempts involved challenging his exclusive right to appoint the Oletuode of Uzere (Defense Minister), a position reaffirmed in the August conference.
In addition, Chief Eboh alleged that the Ovie is attempting to extend the tenure of the current Uzere Community executive, led by Pastor Sunny Adu Eke, beyond the constitutionally mandated term. The letter claims that the Ovie has been working with “disgruntled elements” to obstruct the community’s traditional processes.
Tensions further escalated as the Delta State Government’s Committee on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, led by Chief Edwin Uzor, previously ruled that the Uzere Conference decisions are sacrosanct and cannot be overturned. The Ministry of Women Affairs and Community Development has also issued a letter withdrawing erroneously issued certificates extending the tenure of the community executive beyond December 2024, which had stirred confusion.
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The Uzere community now faces mounting tension, with fears of a potential repeat of the 2011 crisis that led to the exile of the Ovie. Chief Eboh appealed to the governor to address these issues promptly to maintain peace and prevent disruptions to oil production activities in the area.
In a move aimed at ensuring stability, Chief Eboh called on the governor to summon the Ovie to address these grievances. He also highlighted the potential for significant unrest if the Uzere December Conference, a key event for the community, is obstructed by ongoing disputes.
The letter was also copied to various high-ranking officials, including the Director of DSS in Asaba, the Delta State Police Command, and leaders of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), showing the seriousness of the situation.
