Leaders and elders of Okpella community in Estako East Local Government Council of Edo State on Friday appealed to Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, to rescind the appointment of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, HRH. Michael Sado over alleged non-compliance with traditional and customary laws.

The community elders noted that the selection process was flawed, insisting that he monarch was neither selected by Ukhomunyio village nor presented to the kingmakers and not installed according to tradition.

Briefing newsmen in Benin, Chief Charles Adogah (SAN), and traditional holder of the title of Obodeanokpella of Okpella called for the immediate suspension of the unlawful coronation of the monarch.

According to Adogah, no consensus was reached by Okpella people in his selection.

The Obodeanokpella of Okpella called for the cancelation of the process that led to his appointment.

Adogah appealed to Governor Okpebholo to give the people the of Kumunio village of the Oteku ruling house without any interference the power to carry out its traditional and lawful responsibility of selecting a candidate to the exalted throne of Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.

“We have witnessed what can only be described as a flagrant violation of the Declaration of the Customary Law Regulating Succession to the Traditional Title of Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.

“Instead of respecting the procedure outlined in the Declaration which clearly vests the power of nominating the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella on the appropriate component branch of the appropriate ruling house superintendent by the village head, a different script was followed.

“A script written by a few individuals acted upon by the state and sadly endorsed by His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State. “Adogah said.

Adogah, however, solicited the support of the state government in ensuring that the selection process proceeds strictly in line with the Declaration of Customary Law Regulating the selection.