ASABA, Delta State — October 10, 2025:
After nearly a decade of legal disputes and tension, peace has finally returned between the Asaba and Oko kingdoms in Oshimili South Local Government Area as both royal majesties publicly reconciled in an event described as historic and transformative.
The amicable reconciliation ceremony, held at the Oshimili South Local Government Council Secretariat, was presided over by the Executive Chairman, Hon. (High Chief) Ezenyili Obi Kelvin (PhD), and attended by traditional rulers, palace chiefs, government officials, peace mediators, and members of the press.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Ezenyili expressed deep joy over the successful reconciliation, describing it as a milestone for peace and development in Oshimili South.
“Today marks an epoch-turning event with the reconciliation of the Royal Majesties of Asaba and Oko Kingdoms,” he said. “As the Executive Chairman, I can boldly say this is one of the happiest moments of my administration.”
He noted that the legal conflict, which began in 2016, involved multiple injunctions and appeals before both sides agreed to embrace dialogue.
Ezenyili emphasised that while seeking redress in court is a civil right, mediation and open conversation offer more lasting solutions.
“Conflict mediation promotes economic growth and builds relationships,” he said. “We must always keep channels of honest dialogue open, where grievances can be addressed together.”
The Chairman revealed that his effort to mediate peace began during his first tenure in 2021 and continued into his second term, culminating in the agreement witnessed on Friday.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for supporting the peace process and giving him approval to pursue reconciliation.
He also disclosed that a special account was created to preserve traditional rulers’ stipends during the period of dispute, with a total balance of ₦522,797,882.57 now accounted for as of September 2025 — evidence, he said, of transparency and good governance.
“This is to demonstrate accountability. The records will be handed to both parties for their review,” Ezenyili added.
Asagba of Asaba Commends Dialogue and Unity
Speaking at the event, the Asagba of Asaba expressed gratitude to all who contributed to restoring peace, describing the reconciliation as “a victory for unity and understanding.”
“I want to begin by expressing my deep appreciation to everyone who worked tirelessly to make today possible,” the Asagba said. “It is heartwarming to see the transformation that has taken place. We must commend the government and all those who stood firm for peace.”
He noted that reconciliation was not an easy journey but a process of dialogue, patience, and open-mindedness.
“In mediation, the goal is to reach a ‘Yes’ — a mutual agreement that all sides accept. I am proud that we have reached that ‘Yes’ today,” he said.
The monarch stressed that there was never a true dispute between the Asaba and Oko kingdoms — only misunderstandings that had been resolved through goodwill and dialogue.
“We remain one people, intertwined in history and bound by destiny. We will continue to live together in peace and harmony,” he assured.
He also extended appreciation to the Obi of Okpanam for his brotherly gesture of attending his coronation, saying it symbolised unity and friendship among neighbouring communities.
Akor of the Oko Kingdom Endorses Reconciliation
On his part, the Akor of Oko Kingdom, HRM Osita Onwuka, aligned himself completely with the Asagba’s remarks, emphasising shared heritage and peaceful coexistence.
“I endorse everything that the Asagba of Asaba said about Asaba and Oko,” HRM Onwuka stated. “We are one people and will continue to work together in peace and mutual respect.”
His comments drew applause from the crowd, symbolising the closing of a painful chapter and the beginning of renewed cooperation between the two kingdoms.
Governor’s Adviser on Peacebuilding Hails Process
Also speaking, Chief Edwin Chukwuwinke Obiora, Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, described the reconciliation as a landmark achievement that demonstrates the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to peace.
“Today’s event is a very welcome one. It shows that the two kingdoms are one people who have lived together since time immemorial,” he said.
“We must thank our governor — a man who believes in peace and has zero tolerance for crises in the state. His encouragement made this possible.”
Chief Obiora praised both communities for their maturity and patience throughout the process, adding that lasting peace will drive development in Oshimili South and beyond.
“We thank the people of Asaba and Oko for believing in their leaders and in the process. May God continue to bless our communities and strengthen this peace,” he concluded.
Peace Restored, Future Bright
The reconciliation ceremony ended with prayers, applause, and a symbolic handshake between the two royal majesties — a gesture that marked the official end of their longstanding differences.
Residents and dignitaries described the event as “historic,” saying it would open new doors for unity, cultural collaboration, and development in Oshimili South and Delta State at large.
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