By Peter.
Tensions are rising in Edo State’s Esan Central LGA as the reinstated Onogie of Ewu, HRH Jafaru Isesele I, has fired off a stern legal warning to Governor Monday Okpebholo, urging him to halt plans to resume emoluments payments to the deposed Prince Rasak Ogiefo—or risk contempt of the Supreme Court.
In a December 13, 2025, letter from his counsel, E. Olayiwola Afolabi SAN (Ref: EOA/GEN/68/25), Isesele drew the governor’s attention to the Supreme Court’s July 19, 2024, judgment in Suit No. SC/147/2014, which affirmed his legitimacy as successor to the throne and ordered Ogiefo to vacate the palace. The apex court upheld concurrent rulings from the Edo High Court and Court of Appeal, declaring Ogiefo an “impostor.”
Key Points from the Letter:
- The previous administration halted payments to Ogiefo following the judgments.
- A December 12, 2025, letter from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (signed by Acting Permanent Secretary Pauline Irusota Esq.) directed restoration of benefits to Ogiefo—deemed “palpably unlawful, illegal, and a clear affront” to the Supreme Court.
- Counsel believes the move is “without your knowledge, approval, and authority,” appealing to Okpebholo: “Please do not allow your government to be scandalized.”
- Demand: Withdraw the ministry’s letter immediately and admonish officials against undermining the rule of law.
A separate letter to Irusota gave her 48 hours to retract, threatening referral to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. Copies went to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, AGF/Minister of Justice, and Edo AG/Commissioner for Justice.
Background: A Decade-Long Throne Battle
The dispute traces to chieftaincy succession wrangling, with Ogiefo losing at all three court tiers. The Supreme Court’s final verdict reinstated Isesele, ending Ogiefo’s claim—but the ministry’s apparent reversal has reignited fears of executive interference in judicial matters.
No response yet from Governor Okpebholo’s office or the ministry. The case underscores ongoing traditional rulership tensions in Edo, where court rulings often clash with political or local dynamics.
X is simmering: “Supreme Court judgment ignored? Edo govt playing with fire” [post:0]; “Contempt loading—governor, tread carefully” [post:1]. Traditionalists weigh in: “Rule of law or palace politics?” [post:2].
Will Okpebholo enforce the apex court’s order, or escalate the standoff? Edo’s watching closely. Thoughts on judicial independence vs. executive overreach? Drop below. ⚖️👑 #EwuChieftaincy #EdoPolitics #SupremeCourtJudgment
