In a decisive move to curb insecurity, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has ordered the indefinite suspension of Dr. George Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom, located in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area. The decision comes in response to a disturbing increase in kidnapping and violent crimes reported within the monarch’s territory.
According to a press statement issued on Monday, April 21, by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the traditional ruler’s suspension takes immediate effect. The governor’s action is aimed at restoring order and addressing the failure of leadership in ensuring the safety of residents.
“The suspension is indefinite,” Itua stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
The security situation surrounding the monarch deepened further after the arrest of his secretary, Peter Omiogbemhi. Authorities apprehended Omiogbemhi in connection with a violent episode that led to the death of a palace chief identified as John Ikhamate.
Law enforcement agencies are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, with the government affirming its commitment to justice and accountability.
This move echoes similar actions taken in other states, where traditional rulers have faced sanctions over alleged complicity or negligence in criminal activities. In Rivers State, for example, Governor Siminalayi Fubara recently placed a N100 million bounty on a notorious gang leader, Gift David Okpara Okpolowu, following the brutal killing of Divisional Police Officer SP Bako Angbashim in Odiemudie Community.
Governor Fubara also “suspended a local monarch, Eze Cassidy Ikegbidi, for complicity in allowing the gang to operate freely in his territory.”
With these developments, state governments are signaling a tougher stance on traditional authorities seen to be enabling or failing to control rising insecurity within their jurisdictions.
