By Austin Ogwuda
…. insists that “Otulu is an integral and inseparable part of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom both historically and legally”
THE Obi of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom in Aniocha South local government area of Delta State, Nigeria, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, has expressed sadness that the Asagba of Asaba granted audience to a delegation from Otulu, who visited him, seeking for his (Asagba’s) intervention in their quest for autonomy.
A strongly-worded press release endorsed by the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi stated that “For any traditional ruler to be invited to advise on matters already addressed by a Government-constituted Commission risks undermining due process and inadvertently stoking further tension”.
Recall that few days ago, the Otulu delegation led by Prince Chukwudi Mgbanwa on a visit to the Asagba’s palace claimed that the community (Otulu) has no bearing with Ogwashi-Uku.
Prince Mgbanwa pointed out that there was a High Court judgement of 1971 and a Supreme Court judgement of 1975 granting Otulu an autonomous status, adding that the community had petitioned to the relevant agencies and appeared before the Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up by the State government late last year to challenge the annexation of the community by Ogwashi-Uku.
He expressed worry about the delay in the release of the White Paper on the Inquiry and urged the Asagba to intervene.
But in a sharp reaction, the Ogwashi-Uku palace in that press statement remarked that “For the avoidance of doubt, Otulu is an integral and inseparable part of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, both historically and legally”.
The press release reads in full:
PRESS STATEMENT
RE: COURTESY VISIT BY SELF-STYLED OTULU DELEGATION TO THE ASAGBA OF ASABA
The Palace of His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, has noted with deep concern the press release issued on 25th August 2025 regarding a purported courtesy visit by certain individuals from Otulu to His Royal Majesty, the Asagba of Asaba.
Clarification on Otulu’s Status
For the avoidance of doubt, Otulu is an integral and inseparable part of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, both historically and legally. This fact has been reaffirmed by government records and judicial pronouncements. Any suggestion of “independence” is a gross misrepresentation of the settled position of law and history.
On the Delegation and Its Sponsors
The so-called delegation led by Mr. Chukwudi Mgbanwa does not represent the good people of Otulu. Rather, it reflects the actions of a small faction—many of whom have been directly involved in violent attacks against the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and are either in prison, fugitives from justice, or facing trial on serious charges including terrorism, attempted murder, and arson. For such elements, or their sponsors, to seek legitimacy by visiting a neighbouring monarch is regrettable.
Commission of Inquiry Findings
It is also important to remind the public that these very issues were recently subjected to an exhaustive Commission of Inquiry set up by the Delta State Government. That Commission has already issued its findings, which must be respected by all parties. For any traditional ruler to be invited to advise on matters already addressed by a government-constituted Commission risks undermining due process and inadvertently stoking further tension.
The Asagba’s Own Precedent
His Royal Majesty, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, is also aware that only recently, one of the satellite communities around Asaba attempted to press for autonomy. At a Cabinet Meeting, the Asagba of Asaba himself firmly rejected such efforts, vowing to defend and protect every inch of Asaba land and not cede it to any external influence. Indeed, the Asagba proceeded to establish the “One-Anya Asagba” (Asagba’s Representative) structure for about six satellite communities to ensure their continued governance under the Asagba’s authority.
It is therefore both surprising and unfortunate that separatists from Otulu, who stand on no stronger ground than those satellite communities in Asaba, would be entertained as though their unlawful claims carried legitimacy.
Respect for Institutions
The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the entire Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom hold the Asagba of Asaba in the highest esteem and respect the dignity of his throne. Besides his respected role as the traditional ruler of Asaba, he is also an accomplished senior lawyer. However, we respectfully note that the recognition or encouragement of separatist narratives only emboldens unlawful actors and prolongs conflict. The path to peace lies in respecting constituted authority, obeying judicial decisions, and upholding the unity of communities.
Commitment to Peace
The Palace of Ogwashi-Uku remains committed to peace, harmony, and the rule of law. We call on all well-meaning leaders and stakeholders to join hands in discouraging illegal agitation and in promoting unity under our shared traditions, history, and the law.
Signed,
Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi
Palace Secretary,
For: His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II
Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom
Caption: Pix 1 – The Asagba of Asaba HRM Obi Prof Apiphany Azinge (SAN) received the Otulu delegation led by Prince Chukwudi Mgbanwa at his palace
Pix 2 – the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku HRM Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II
