By 9jaeye 
Oyede Kingdom crisis deepens over disputed succession law
The Oyede community in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State has rejected a controversial government gazette that altered its traditional kingship structure, as tensions continue to rise over arrests linked to opposition against the document.
The dispute centres on a Delta State Government Gazette dated December 23, 2020, which amended the customary law governing succession in Oyede Kingdom. Specifically, the gazette changed the traditional ruler’s title from the long-established Odiologbo to Ovie, a move the community strongly opposes.
Community accuses powerful interests
According to community sources, a wealthy and influential individual allegedly used political connections to push through the gazette without broad community consent. Residents claim the move aimed to install a preferred candidate as monarch, thereby undermining long-standing customs.
Furthermore, many Oyede indigenes insist that the majority of the clan rejects the change and views the gazette as deceptive and illegal. They warn that continued enforcement could trigger deeper internal conflict if authorities fail to intervene responsibly.
Arrests and court action spark outrage
Tensions escalated after security agencies arrested several community leaders who opposed the gazette. Those affected include the President General of Oyede Kingdom, Ovedhe Akemu Nathaniel, alongside Ezekiel Ogbeda, Johnmark Ogholi, Iduene Solomon, Usini Omorojor, Isaiah Ekaba, and Afor Isaac.
Authorities charged the group before a magistrate court in Ozoro, accusing them of criminal conspiracy and instigating intra-communal violence. The court later ordered their remand at the Kwale Correctional Centre, despite claims that complainants had earlier withdrawn the case.
However, officials released all seven detainees on Tuesday afternoon, following renewed legal and community interventions.
Peace committee rejects the gazette
Meanwhile, a Peace and Reconciliation Committee set up in Oyede submitted a report dated November 10, 2025, formally rejecting the 2020 gazette. The committee concluded that the amendment lacked legitimacy and did not originate from the Oyede Clan Union, which holds the legal authority to alter succession laws.
The report described the gazette as procedurally flawed, morally deficient, and unsupported by due process. It also linked the document directly to unrest and division within the community.
Community vows continued resistance
Reacting from abroad, an Oyede indigene based in Canada condemned what he described as the use of police and courts to intimidate dissenting voices. He vowed that the community would continue to resist the gazette and defend unity within Oyede Kingdom.
As pressure mounts, community leaders have renewed calls for dialogue, transparency, and respect for tradition, warning that peace depends on reversing the disputed amendment.
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