Odidi Stakeholders Urge Respect for Court Process in Ongoing Leadership Dispute
By Tessy Ogbemi
Stakeholders of Odidi Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State have called on all parties involved in the community's leadership dispute to respect the judicial process and refrain from actions that could prejudice ongoing court proceedings.
The position was contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Odidi Community, Prince Preye Okrikpa, and signed by the Secretary, Mr. Clement Numah, alongside other stakeholders aligned with the Prince Preye Okrikpa-led executive.
According to the statement, the leadership dispute is currently before a court of competent jurisdiction and remains unresolved.
"The issue of leadership in Odidi Community is presently the subject of a pending action before a court of competent jurisdiction," the stakeholders stated, adding that all interested parties should allow the legal process to run its course.
They urged individuals and groups connected to the dispute to avoid actions or public comments that could interfere with the judicial process, stressing that all parties are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects the rule of law while the matter remains before the court.
The stakeholders also expressed concern over recent publications and public statements by the group led by Comrade Truston Gbenekama, which they said has continued to present itself as the recognized leadership of the community despite the pending litigation.
According to the statement, the Okrikpa-led executive remains the leadership endorsed by the Odidi Community Congress on March 15, 2026, while the court determines the issues surrounding the dispute.
The stakeholders further argued that the administration led by Prince Okrikpa emerged through a decision of the Odidi Community Congress, which they described as the highest decision-making body of the community.
They also referenced previous legal developments involving the late Chief Johnny Aribogha's administration,The judgment being referenced by the parallel group related to the tenure of the late Chief Johnny Aribogha's administration. Significantly, the same parties who now rely on that judgment subsequently participated in and recognized the swearing-in of the late Chief Johnny Aribogha for a second tenure maintaining that differing interpretations of past judgments and events are among the issues requiring judicial clarification.
The statement emphasized that the dispute should be resolved through legal processes rather than through media propaganda or competing public narratives.
"As law-abiding members of Odidi Community, we have chosen to respect the judicial process and await the court's decision," the stakeholders stated.
The group commended the OML 42 Joint Management Partnership (JMPT) and its legal advisers for what it described as a neutral position in relation to the dispute, particularly the recommendation that engagements with contending parties be suspended pending the court's determination.
They also acknowledged companies operating within the OML 42 area, including Nestoil, Jonecreek Hydrocarbon and Heritage Energy Operational Services, for maintaining neutrality while continuing their operations.
The stakeholders appealed to all interested parties to refrain from taking sides in the dispute while the matter remains before the court that no amount of media propaganda, or endorsements can replace the authority of the court. We therefore urge all stakeholders to refrain from presenting personal opinions as settled law while the matter remains before the court. The proper forum for interpreting the legal effect and scope of any judgment is the court itself, not media publications or press conferences
They further called on security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure the maintenance of peace, public order and lawful operations within the community.
Reaffirming their commitment to peace, the stakeholders said Odidi Community has a tradition of law-abiding conduct and expressed confidence that the issues in dispute would be resolved through due process.
The statement was signed by Prince Preye Okrikpa, Chairman; Clement Numah, Secretary; Mike Komkemele, Public Relations Officer;
Chief William Mamamu
Chief Lawrence Okrikpa
Chief Michael Aribogha
Chief Isaiah Ibilou
Elder Pori Newyear
Elder Godwin Ganiga
Elder Sam Dobowei
Elder Mike Kulu
Engr. Moses Ibilou
Elder Johnson Febunafa
Mr. Joseph Hitler Oyateide – Youth President
Mrs. Nancy Ado – Women Leaderand several community leaders, elders, women and youth representatives acting on behalf of concerned stakeholders of Odidi Community.
