By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
The people of Orior Ozolua Community in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State have called for the removal of the youth leader of the community, Mr. Osasere Egharevbha.
They alleged that he has spent 17 years as the youth leader of the community against the stipulated two years.
Addressing Journalists in Benin City, on behalf of the community, Mr. Ajayi Nehikhare, secretary of the youth wing, alleged that Elder Osasere Egharevba was appointed as the youth leader in 2008 and in 2012, he was promoted by His Royal Highness Osakpamwan Osemwengie the late Enogie of Orior Ozolua Community into the Council of Elders, a position that by custom and pronouncements of the Oba of Benin automatically disqualifies him from holding any position in the Youth Association and Elder.
He said despite this, Elder Osasere has refused to vacate the youth leadership position, thereby violating both the constitutional tenure limit and traditional protocols of leadership transition in the community.
Nehikhare narrated that in 2023, he facilitated the appointment of a new Odionwere, who controversially reinstated him as Okaighele despite his status as a community elder and without the consent of the elders and youths of the community.
The spokesperson for the community went on to allege that for the past 17 years, the community has suffered from stagnation, youth restiveness, and insecurity, largely fueled by the activities of Elder Osasere and his group of loyal armed thugs which has increased land speculation, intimidation of land developers, elders and residents of the community.
He said presently, the once peaceful community is under threat, with armed elements roaming freely, intimidating residents, and creating fear and instability. The possibility of violent confrontation and total breakdown of law and order looms dangerously.
He said to avoid what could worsen the security situation of the community, they are calling on the palace and the governor to take swift and decisive action to address the brewing crisis.
He said they are also calling for the immediate investigation and removal of Elder Osasere Egharevba from the position of Okaighele, which he no longer qualifies to hold.
He said that the governor’s intervention at this critical time is necessary to avert chaos, protect lives and property, and restore confidence in their traditional leadership and governance structures adding that they believe in his commitment to justice. peace, and inclusive development for all communities in the state.
Responding, the embattled youth leader, Elder Osasere Egharevba said he was elected as the youth leader in November 2023 adding that he has not stayed for 17 years in office as alleged.
