The Edo State Government has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups allegedly fomenting unrest in Okpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, and declared its readiness to invoke the full weight of the law against offenders and their sponsors.

The warning came following the activities of some persons and groups to cause a crisis in Okpella over the Okuokpellagbe stool in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin, said the government would not tolerate any attempt to destabilize the peace of the community through “ill-conceived crises.”

He emphasized that security agencies have been placed on alert to monitor and respond decisively to emerging threats.

He said, “We will not hesitate to invoke the full wrath of the law on anyone and or their sponsors trying to create crises in Okpella. We will not just arrest those who are causing mayhem, we will go the full length to prosecute them according to the law.”

He further disclosed that murder cases allegedly connected to the lingering dispute are already before the courts. According to him, “the murder cases linked to this matter are presently being prosecuted and will be followed to their logical conclusions”.

Reaffirming the government’s position, Afegbua maintained that the Okuokpellagbe stool is not vacant, insisting that Mike Olorunfemi Sado remains the duly recognized traditional ruler. He described attempts to suggest otherwise as “mischievous and irresponsible.”

The commissioner also defended the role of the state government, noting that Governor Monday Okpebholo did not interfere in the selection process.

He said the administration has consistently respected traditional institutions and due process in chieftaincy matters.

Afegbua warned that individuals seeking to exploit the situation for personal gain or to access community resources unlawfully would also face prosecution.

“Those who want to feast on community resources to advance selfish interests will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he added.

He called on residents of Okpella and the wider Edo State to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability, stressing that development can only thrive in a secure environment.

“A word is enough for the wise,” Afegbua cautioned, urging all parties to desist from actions capable of reigniting tensions.