Alagbabri Community Reaches Resolution Amid Leadership Crisis

IN a decisive move towards peace and unity, the longstanding leadership crisis that has plagued the Alagbabri Community has been resolved.

The breakthrough came during a high-powered Peace Meeting convened by the Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, HRM Clement Ikolo. The meeting brought together key community executives and leaders rep­resenting both sides of the divisive issue.

At the heart of the dispute was the tenure of the Community President, Mr Philip Emuobosa, which had sparked considerable disagreement. His term, which had allegedly expired in December 2023, was unilater­ally extended for another three years by some com­munity opinion leaders. Conversely, others within the community claimed Emuobosa had been removed from office in December 2023 without proper procedure.

Chief Paul Arhiakpore and other opinion leaders pres­ent argued that the extension was necessary to prevent the potential impersonation of community leaders by a former chairman deemed unfit for office. On the other hand, opposing voices advocated for immediate elec­tions to select new community executives.

Following extensive discussions, a consensus was reached. It was agreed that; “The people of the Alagbabri Community, especially those feeling aggrieved over the raging Community President tussle, should sheathe their swords, cultivate the spirit of love among themselves and embrace peace for the Community to move forward.”

Meanwhile, to ensure continuity and stability in leadership, Mr Philip Emuobosa was granted a one-year extension starting from the expiry of his previous term in December 2023. During this period, he will oversee the process leading to a new electoral cycle, scheduled for November 2024, with a handover ceremony in De­cember 2024.

Moreover, additional community members will be nominated to work alongside Mr. Emuo­bosa in the interim, sub­ject to palace scrutiny, to guarantee a smooth transition and inclusive governance.

Those present at the meeting were Mr Lucky Ughwubetine, Mr Philip Emuobosa (President), Mr Nige­ria Ughwubetine, Mr Victor Obereche, Chief Paul Arhiakpore (Opin­ion Leader), Mr Ogh­enevweta Sargeant, Mr Kingsley Obolokor (Youth President), Mr Terry Francis Okoro (Ag. Vice Chairman), Mrs Mary Ishaka (Otota Eweya), Mr Peter Ja­cob (Ag. Chairman), Mr. Onoriode Dio, Mr. Monday Afigho, Evang. Dafe Gbogidi and Mr. Michael Bolokor.