By Admin 
DELTA: Tension is escalating in the once serene Irri Kingdom of Delta State over a brewing royal succession crisis.
The dispute has polarized the community, following the alleged imposition of Simon Odhomo as the kingdom’s monarch—a move fiercely opposed by the traditionally crowned king, HRM Eloho Jacko, Amatavo II, the Odion-Logbo of Irri.
Speaking on the controversy, King Jacko, who ascended the throne on July 21, 2023, condemned the installation of Simon Odhomo, claiming it violates Irri Kingdom’s long-standing customs. He alleged that external forces, motivated by the kingdom’s oil wealth, were behind the move.
“This is a blatant violation and an affront to the sovereignty of Irri Kingdom,” King Jacko said in a statement. “Simon Odhomo has no legitimate claim to the throne as he is not from the ruling Ibogidi family. This is a calculated attempt to exploit the kingdom’s resources and destabilize our community.”
The Delta State Government has announced December 5, 2024, as the date for the official presentation of a staff of office to Simon Odhomo, a decision that has sparked widespread outrage among Irri residents.
King Jacko described the government’s decision as a disregard for the kingdom’s age-old traditions. “The rightful kingmakers, led by the Osewo of the Omonde family, have affirmed my position as the legitimate king. Any other claim is fraudulent and unacceptable to the people of Irri,” he declared.
The monarch also alleged that financial inducements were being used to influence legal and administrative processes, accusing key community leaders of misleading the Deputy Governor of Delta State.
“We urge the Deputy Governor and the state government to recognize the legitimate process of kingship in Irri. I am confident that if properly informed, the Deputy Governor would not support this injustice,” he said.
Calling on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene, King Jacko appealed for justice. “We call on the governor to uphold justice by recognizing me as the rightful king and issuing the staff of office to me.”
He further extended his appeal to peace-loving Nigerians, community leaders, and traditional rulers across Isoko land to stand with Irri Kingdom in defense of its heritage.
“This is not just about Irri Kingdom,” King Jacko emphasized. “It is about protecting the sovereignty of all communities and ensuring that our traditions are not undermined by external forces. We must preserve our peace and cultural values.”