Senator Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has ordered the immediate suspension of the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom, Agenebode, George Oshiapi Egabor, following recent cases of incessant kidnapping and killings in his domain.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, on Monday announced the suspension in a statement, noting that the decision comes after a recent incident led to the death of a Palace Chief, Late John Ikhamate, and the subsequent arrest of the traditional ruler’s secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi.
Okpebholo seeks to address the security concerns in the area and restore peace to the Uwano Kingdom, the statement noted.
The suspension is expected to allow for a thorough investigation into the matter and for measures to be put in place to prevent future occurrences.
The statement said, “Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom, Agenebode, Estako East Local Government Area of Edo State, over recent cases of incessant kidnapping and killings in his domain.
“Already, his secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has since been arrested by the relevant authorities, following a recent incident that led to the death of a Palace Chief, Late John Ikhamate.
“The suspension of the traditional ruler is indefinite.”
