Illegal Chiefs disbanded, Odibo reaffirmed as regent of Udu kingdom

In a decisive move to uphold traditional authority and reinforce public order, the Udu Local Government Security Committee has disbanded an illegally constituted council of chiefs and reaffirmed High Chief Sam Odibo as the legitimate Otota and Regent of Udu Kingdom.

The action followed the statutory monthly Security Council Meeting held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Udu Council Secretariat, Otor-Udu, chaired by the Executive Chairman, Olorogun (Hon.) Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode JP, FCIA.

The meeting brought together top representatives from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, DSS, NSCDC, youth groups, and traditional authorities, to address growing concerns over the unauthorized establishment of a parallel “Council of Chiefs.”

According to the Council, the faction led by Chief Mathew Uparan (alias Odjeku), who allegedly declared himself Otota, grossly violated the 1979 Edict governing traditional leadership in Udu Kingdom.

No individual or group has the legal authority to alter the established traditional structure of the Udu Kingdom,” the Council affirmed in its communique.

1. Illegal Traditional Council Nullified: The formation and operation of any unauthorized “Council of Chiefs” is declared illegal, null, and void.
2. Immediate Dissolution: The group led by Chief Mathew Uparan is hereby disbanded with immediate effect.
3. Legal Consequences: Security agencies are directed to arrest and prosecute anyone impersonating the Otota of Udu apart from High Chief Sam Odibo.
4. Public Safety Measures: Any meeting in the name of traditional authority must obtain prior approval from the Nigeria Police or the recognized traditional council.
5. Respect for Lawful Authority: The Delta State Government remains the sole legal entity empowered to regulate traditional leadership in the state.

The Council emphasized that attempts to undermine lawful traditional authority will not be tolerated and will attract full legal consequences.

The meeting also addressed the rise in cultism and other social vices affecting community peace. Stakeholders were urged to enhance collaboration with security agencies and report suspicious activities promptly.

In closing, Chairman Oyibode called for collective commitment to peace and order

“We must continue to preserve the dignity of our traditional institutions and support all lawful efforts to maintain unity, stability, and progress in Udu Kingdom.”

This resolution by the Udu Local Government Council reinforces its unwavering dedication to safeguarding the integrity of traditional leadership and ensuring the sustained peace and cultural stability of the region.