By : Precious Erugo
Ugbolu community in Delta State has recently found itself at the center of a traditional leadership dispute, as elder statesman and respected title holder, Obi Anthony Iweanya Nwokolo, offers his account of events surrounding the recognition of red cap chiefs within the town.
Obi Nwokolo, widely regarded as a key figure in the struggle for Ugbolu’s autonomy, stated that his commitment to the community spans many years, long before he assumed the Obi title.
According to him, community meetings and deliberations toward unity and development have consistently been held under his leadership, with representation from the three major quarters of Ugbolu.
Recounting the origins of the current disagreement, Obi Nwokolo explained that in 2024, a community member, Akamesike, approached him expressing a desire to be installed as a red cap chief—an Obi. Nwokolo said he advised him to first consult widely with all quarters of the community, including Ogbeobi and Ugbolu, before proceeding.
However, he alleged that Akamesike failed to follow due process. Instead, a meeting was convened without proper consultation, leading to resistance from key stakeholders who felt excluded from the process.
The situation escalated when Akamesike reportedly sought external endorsement. Obi Nwokolo claimed that Obi Chike Okonkwo was crowned through the involvement of an Obi from Ibusa, a move he described as inconsistent with Ugbolu customs.
Despite observing these developments, Nwokolo said he chose not to intervene immediately, maintaining confidence that tradition would ultimately prevail.
Following objections from the wider Ugbolu community, Obi Chike Okonkwo later returned with emissaries to seek reconciliation. Nwokolo disclosed that, after consultations, the community agreed he should oversee a proper reinstallation ceremony in line with Ugbolu customs and traditions.
This was carried out, and Obi Chike Okonkwo was subsequently recognized as a legitimate red cap chief.
In contrast, Nwokolo said Akamesike has yet to regularize his title through the accepted traditional process. As a result, he is not officially recognized as an Obi within Ugbolu, despite reportedly continuing to wear the red cap.
“We do not engage in conflict over such matters,” Nwokolo stated. “We allow tradition and the ancestors to uphold what is right.”
The dispute has also extended into governance concerns. Obi Nwokolo addressed a petition allegedly submitted to the Delta State Government by Obi Chike, accusing him of assuming undue authority. Nwokolo refuted the claim, emphasizing that he neither declared himself king nor acted outside his role as the oldest Obi title holder in the community.
He further highlighted the longstanding existence of the Obi-in-Council, a body he said was established with the approval of past community leaders, including successive Diopkas. According to him, the council has played a vital role in maintaining order and resolving disputes within Ugbolu.
Obi Nwokolo noted that even recent leadership has endorsed the council’s continued operation, citing support from the current Diopka, Elder Francis Esealuka.
While tensions remain, Obi Nwokolo expressed optimism that unity and adherence to tradition will ultimately guide Ugbolu toward stability and progress.
“Our goal has always been to move Ugbolu forward,” he said. “With collective effort and respect for our customs, we believe peace will prevail.”