Historic Peace Deal Ends Nine-Year Rift Between Asaba and Oko Kingdoms

Peace has finally returned to Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, following the resolution of a nine-year misunderstanding between the Asagba of Asaba and the Akor of Oko Kingdom over the sharing of monthly stipends from the statutory 5 percent traditional rulers’ allocation.

The reconciliation, brokered by the Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government, Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, was sealed at a joint meeting of the two royal stools held at the Council Secretariat in Asaba on Friday, October 10, 2025.

Dr. Ezenyili traced the prolonged rift to a legal battle that began in 2016, marked by multiple injunctions, court judgments, and appeals filed by both sides. He said the issue stemmed from the suspension of stipends due to disputes over revenue sharing between the two traditional councils.

“The right to seek redress in a Court of Law remains a civil right for every aggrieved person,” Ezenyili said. “However, as civic communities, we must embrace mediation and dialogue to foster development, relationships, and exchange of ideas rather than conflicts.”

The Council Chairman recalled that the effort to reconcile both monarchs began during his first tenure in 2021, emphasizing that his commitment to restoring peace between Asaba and Oko never wavered.

“Today marks an epoch-making event in Oshimili South with the amicable reconciliation of both Royal Majesties. Without an iota of doubt, I am the happiest person among us all,” he declared.

Dr. Ezenyili appreciated Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, for granting him approval to reopen peace efforts during his second tenure, describing the reconciliation as a significant milestone in the council’s history.

He also thanked the royal fathers, palace chiefs, and all stakeholders involved in the mediation process for demonstrating maturity and goodwill, noting that “God has used this process to restore unity and lasting peace to Oshimili South.”

In a rare gesture of transparency, Dr. Ezenyili presented a detailed account of the cumulative stipends accrued since payments were halted during the reign of the late Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Chike Edozien, up to September 2025.

Responding, the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN, OON), commended the Council Chairman for his commitment, integrity, and transparent handling of the reconciliation process.

“We are all happy that this has been brought to an amicable conclusion,” Asagba Azinge said. “It was not an easy process, but through open-minded dialogue and genuine desire to reach a ‘YES,’ both parties have achieved peace.”

The monarch clarified that there was never an enmity between the people of Asaba and Oko Kingdoms but rather a misunderstanding over administrative procedures related to stipends.

“We remain brothers and sisters, inextricably intertwined as part of Oshimili South. We will continue to work together in peace and harmony to move our communities forward,” he affirmed.

Similarly, the Akor of Oko Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Engr. Eze Osita I, echoed the sentiments of the Asagba, expressing gratitude to the Council Chairman and all mediators who contributed to the peaceful resolution.

The reconciliation marks a new era of cooperation and unity between Asaba and Oko Kingdoms after nearly a decade of division. The meeting ended with prayers for enduring peace, with traditional chiefs from both kingdoms and council officials witnessing the historic moment.

Dr. Ezenyili expressed optimism that the renewed relationship would promote inter-community trade, cultural exchange, and socioeconomic development in Oshimili South.