A high court in Edo State has restored Engr. Lukeman Oghehemhimhe Akemokhue as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella Kingdom, nullifying the state government’s decision to replace him.
The judgment was delivered on Thursday, 26 March 2026, by Justice O.A. Otamere at the Edo High Court in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area. The suit (HAG/12/2025) was filed by Engr. Akemokhue after Governor Monday Okpebholo withdrew his recognition on 30 April 2025.
Justice Otamere held that Akemokhue was not given an opportunity to be heard before his removal, describing the action as a breach of due process. The judge pointed to constitutional guarantees and the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs’ Edict of 1979, noting the governor’s move did not follow the required legal procedure and amounted to an abuse of office.
The court set aside the government’s 30 April 2025 announcement, declaring it null and void. It upheld Akemokhue’s appointment of 22 September 2024 and confirmed his right to perform the duties of Okuokpellagbe, including receiving all entitlements and participating in Etsako East Traditional Council meetings. As a result, Engr. Michael Eshiorenoya Olorunfemi Sado, who had been installed in his place, was ordered to step down.
The defendants in the case included Governor Okpebholo, the State Attorney-General, the Commissioner for Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Etsako East Traditional Council, High Chief Ayuba Acheku, and Sado.
Reacting to the verdict, spokesperson for the Okpella Traditional Council, Hanson Aimofumeh, asked residents to stay calm. He disclosed that the state plans to appeal, focusing on whether Akemokhue should have first petitioned the State Executive Council as the law provides. Aimofumeh urged the Okpella community to remain watchful while the legal process continues.