The Delta State government recently found itself at the center of controversy after initially approving autonomous status for the Olodu community in Aniocha south local government area of the State, only to later rescind its decision.
This unexpected reversal has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the government’s consistency in policy-making.
At the Post Exco briefing anchored by the Commissioner for Works, Rural and Riverine and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, on Thursday February 13, 2025, he said: “Exco approved the presentation of staff of office to Obi Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko as the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom in Aniocha north local government area.
The State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine) and Public Information was accompanied by his counterparts, Mr. Reuben Izeze (Works: Highways and Urban Roads), Mr. Sonny Ekedayen (Economic Planning), Dr. Joseph Onojaeme (Health).
Otherwise were Prince Godwin Ejinyere (Director-General, Warri, Uvwie, and Environs), and Sir Festus Ahon (Chief Press Secretary to the Governor)—Chief Ukah, the Director General, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency.
“The appointment of Obi Ben Azubuike Kanegede as the Ogene of Ibedeni in Ndokwa East; the appointment of Augustine Nzemeke Ezeaguna III, Obi of Egbudu-Aka Kingdom.
The one causing the upheaval, is where he said; “And we also recognize Olodu as more like an autonomous clan in Aniocha south local government area.
“So, with this recognition, Olodu, will be able to now exist as a town and as a community of its own”, he reiterated.
While the initial approval was seen as a step toward local governance and self-determination for Olodu, the sudden U-turn has left residents and stakeholders frustrated, prompting speculation about the reasons behind the change.
However, critics argue that the move undermines the credibility of government and raises questions about due process in the state’s decision-making.
The situation has also reignited discussions about the broader implications of granting and revoking autonomy in Delta State, with many urging transparency and clear guidelines to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The reversal of the autonomy initially granted to the Olodu community during the maiden State Executive Council (SEC) meeting, presided over by the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, further validates the stance of former Governor Chief James Onanefe Ibori.
He once stated: “Don’t cry to me Delta. Haven listened to this brilliant presentation by our young men, you begin to wonder and say to yourself, Delta O Delta! Delta O Delta!!
“In governance and in public office, when you are in trouble, you seek help. Don’t be ashame to do so. You ask from people that you believe in.
“In fact, in your cabinet, you put people that you believe know more than you do so your debate in cabinet will be robust. That is my own view of governance”, he said
The sudden U-turn may be linked to the fact that the committee established to investigate the underlying causes of the crisis between Ogwashi-Uku and Olodu had not yet submitted its report.
Without the committee’s findings, the government was unable to draft a white paper, making the initial decision appear premature.
Concerned stakeholders, especially those aware of the proceedings and those who closely followed the panel of inquiry, questioned the basis of the government’s decision to grant autonomy while its own committee was still in the process of compiling its report.
