Delta State Government has officially clarified that Olu-Odu Ogwashi-Uku remains an integral part of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and has not been granted autonomous status.
In a statement issued by Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, the government debunked reports suggesting that Olu-Odu had been granted autonomy, emphasizing that such claims were erroneous.
“Delta State Government wishes to correct the misleading information regarding the autonomous status of Olu-Odu community in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State,” Aniagwu stated.
He further explained that while a memo requesting autonomy for the community was initially listed for discussion at the maiden 2025 meeting of the State Executive Council, it was stepped down on the directive of His Excellency, Governor Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori before deliberations commenced.
“We therefore urge the general public to disregard the earlier publication erroneously granting autonomy to the community,” the statement read.
Controversy Over Self-Proclaimed Ruler
The issue of Olu-Odu’s status has been at the center of a long-standing controversy following attempts by one Mr. Alexander Ifechukwude to declare himself the traditional ruler of the community.
According to sources, Mr. Ifechukwude had previously been prosecuted based on legal advice from the Delta State Ministry of Justice. However, the case was discontinued after he provided a formal undertaking to cease his activities.
Despite this, reports indicate that Ifechukwude allegedly attempted to consolidate his claim by offering over 1,500 hectares of land in the Olu-Odu area to high-ranking government officials while signing documents referring to himself as His Highness.
This move reportedly triggered a major crisis within Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, as local farmers and community members were forcibly displaced from their ancestral lands.
Community Reaction and Appreciation for Government’s Clarification
Members of the Ogwashi-Uku community have welcomed the state government’s clarification, reaffirming that Ogwashi-Uku remains indivisible and rejecting any attempts to partition or carve out sections of the kingdom.
Community leaders expressed their gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for swiftly addressing the issue and preventing the spread of misinformation. They also commended His Royal Majesty, Obi Dr. Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, for his relentless efforts in bringing the matter to the governor’s attention and ensuring that the territorial integrity of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom remains intact.
With the government’s firm stance, it is expected that any further attempts to undermine the unity of Ogwashi-Uku will be met with appropriate legal and administrative actions.
