It was indeed a significant milestone achievement in the history of Oshimili South Local Government Area, Delta State, on Friday, October 10, 2025, as the Royal Majesties of Asaba and Oko Kingdoms reconciled after nearly a decade-long dispute.
The reconciliation facilitated by the Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Hon. (High Chief) Ezenyili Obi Kelvin, Ph.D (Eko) and held at Asaba the state capital, did not only signifies the end of the long-standing dispute, but also pave the way for unity, progress, and cooperation between the two kingdoms.
The reconciliation which held amidst pomp and jubilation, signaled the restoration of peace and brotherhood between the two neighboring kingdoms, bringing to an end years of strained relations marked by legal battles and communal tension.
The event attracted dignitaries from all walks of life, including government officials, palace chiefs, traditional rulers, and members of the press. In his keynote address, the Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Hon. Ezenyili, expressed profound joy over the reconciliation, describing it as one of the most significant achievements of his administration.
Hon. Ezenyili recalled that the legal tussle between both Royal Majesties began in 2016 and had lingered through multiple injunctions, judgments, and appeals. He noted that while the right to seek legal redress remains a civil right, true development and unity can only thrive through dialogue, mediation, and mutual understanding. “It is always best to open channels for honest conversations where grievances can be aired and solutions found together,” he stated.
The Chairman disclosed that his administration’s commitment to fostering peace between the two kingdoms began during his first tenure in 2021, inspired by the long history of inter-marriages, trade, and friendship that once bound the people of Asaba and Oko together. His determination, he said, was strengthened by the desire to restore harmony and progress to the area.
Hon. Ezenyili extended special appreciation to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, for granting him approval to pursue the reconciliation process during his second tenure and described the Governor’s support as a “notable milestone in the history of Oshimili South.” He added that the reconciliation could not have been achieved without his encouragement and the cooperation of both royal fathers.
In a gesture of transparency and accountability, the Council Chairman also announced that a special account was created by the Local Government Council to preserve the monthly stipends due to both Royal Majesties and their palace chiefs throughout the duration of the dispute. He revealed that as of September 2025, the cumulative amount preserved in the account stood at ₦522,797,882.57 (Five Hundred and Twenty-Two Million, Seven Hundred and Ninety-Seven Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eighty-Two Naira, Fifty-Seven Kobo).
Original copies of the account statement were presented to both parties for their assessment, a move that drew commendation from attendees who hailed the Council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. The ceremony concluded with prayers of thanksgiving and songs of unity as both monarchs exchanged warm handshakes, symbolizing the beginning of a new era of peace, unity, and cooperation.
Hon. Ezenyili, in his closing remarks, gave thanks to God for using him as an instrument of peace, expressing confidence that the reconciliation would usher in lasting development and renewed harmony among the people. “May this peace be enduring in Jesus’ name, Amen,” he declared to resounding applause.