A growing storm is brewing in the Agbede community of Etsako West Local Government Area, where a long-standing succession dispute is threatening to boil over into civil unrest. Community leaders and concerned stakeholders are now sounding the alarm, formally calling on Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene before the situation spirals out of control.
The tension stems from the void left by the passing of the late traditional ruler, Oba M. S. Momodu. What began as a family succession contest has deepened into a complex legal and social standoff. While a Federal High Court judgment delivered on January 12, 2026, provided a clear path for succession based on seniority, the implementation of this ruling has been fraught with challenges. A claimant was installed as the Oba of Agbede before the official court documents could be processed, effectively bypassing the judicial process.
The situation turned volatile when supporters of the claimant allegedly forced their way into the Agbede Palace, which had been secured pending a lawful transition. This move came in direct defiance of a suspension order issued by the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as a standing High Court injunction that restrains the claimant from parading himself as the traditional ruler.
A coalition of prominent community voices, known as the Ayuele Solidarity Front, is now leading the push for a peaceful resolution. The group, which includes former state lawmakers, human rights activists, and retired security officials, expressed deep concern over the claimant’s continued occupation of the palace. They warned that while they have worked hard to keep local youth from taking matters into their own hands, the persistent disregard for court orders is pushing the community to its breaking point.
The coalition has sent a clear message to the government, urging Governor Okpebholo to enforce existing directives to restore order and demonstrate that the rule of law still holds sway in Edo State. They are also calling for an increased security presence in Agbede to prevent any further provocations. As the community waits for decisive state action, the Ayuele Solidarity Front is appealing to all residents of the Ayuele Clan to maintain their composure and remain law-abiding, emphasizing that they remain committed to a resolution rooted in justice and due process.
