In a landmark judgment that may finally bring peace to the embattled Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has once again dismissed an appeal by the Umu Dieyi family challenging the legitimacy of the Umu Obi Obahai royal family.
The apex court, sitting in Abuja on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, and presided over by Honourable Justice H.M. Ogunwumiju, delivered its ruling in Suit No. SC/CV/1036/2022, effectively rejecting the claims brought by Chief Francis Njokanma, Felix Izediunor, Wilson Izediunor & others, representatives of the Umu Dieyi family.
The appellants had sought to overturn previous rulings that affirmed the Umu Obi Obahai family as the rightful custodians of the royal lineage.
This decision marks the second consecutive dismissal by the Supreme Court on the matter. The first, delivered in 2021, settled the core of the dispute in favour of the Umu Obi Obahai family.
Undeterred, the Umu Dieyi group returned with a fresh appeal in August 2022, which the court has now ruled against—effectively shutting the door on any further legal contest.
Reacting to the ruling, Prince Onyema Okonjo, speaking on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, hailed the judgment as a victory for truth, tradition, and the rule of law.
> “This judgment confirms what the law has long made clear. There is no further appeal pending. We call on the Umu Dieyi family to accept the decision of the courts and desist from actions that threaten the peace and unity of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom,” he said.
Observers believe the ruling provides long-awaited clarity and will help restore calm to a kingdom historically plagued by chieftaincy disputes.
Traditional institutions, local leaders, and residents are hopeful that this definitive judgment will pave the way for greater unity, administrative order, and cultural renewal in Ogwashi-Uku.
With the Supreme Court’s decisive action, stakeholders are urging all parties to focus on reconciliation, communal development, and the preservation of cultural heritage, free from the shadows of royal rancour.
