We do not support roadblocks, illegal levies by our monarch’s son- Delta community protests
Protesters in Delta State Oppose Road Blockade
ENHWE, Delta State — Peaceful demonstrations erupted in the Enhwe Community, located in the Isoko South Local Government Area, as residents expressed their disapproval of a blockade on Urri Road and allegations concerning illegal levies against businessman Victor Wayles Egukhawhore. The blockade is reportedly orchestrated by Prince Larry Eduvie Efekodha, the son of the community’s traditional ruler.
The protest, led by Michael Akpakpa, Secretary of the Elders’ Council, gathered elders, women, and youth who condemned both the blockade and the denial of an alleged arrest of the King. Demonstrators displayed placards with messages asserting that “Prince Larry Eduvie Efekodha is not representing Enhwe” and praising Egukhawhore for his contributions to the community.
According to the Delta State Public and Private Properties Protection Law of 2018, it is illegal for community leaders or individuals to forcefully collect levies, including development fees from property owners and developers.
During the protest, Akpakpa stated, “Enhwe community stands with High Chief Victor Wayles Egukhawhore, who has made significant strides in local infrastructure development.” Chief Oyibo Omare, a spokesperson for the Elders Council, reiterated that the community does not support the blockade imposed by Efekodha and his associates, emphasizing that it is not under the control of the monarch’s family.
Landowners along Urri-Enhwe Road, including Idisi Omoyibo and Ememerakpo Amata, confirmed that they leased their upland to Egukhawhore for use as a sand dump site. They clarified that the stream in the area belongs to the community and not HRM Anthony Onomuefe Efekodha, Ejuzi 11.
A statement from the Enhwe Clan Development Association, signed by President-General Dr. Emmanuel Okworigho and Secretary General Michael Omo-Odudu, dismissed claims of HRM Anthony Efekhoda’s arrest as “false and malicious.” The statement elaborated that the King is currently incapacitated, and his son, Larry Eduvie Efekhoda, has been accused of overstepping his bounds by collecting unauthorized funds from businesses in the area.
“The individual arrested by security agencies was Mr. Larry Eduvie Efekhoda for usurpation of authority, while HRM remains on the throne and has not been arrested,” the statement read.
The Enhwe community has a duly elected President-General, Dr. Emmanuel Okworigho, who received recognition from the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development, as mandated by the Delta State Regulation of Community Development Association Law, 2021.
The community officials criticized claims of arrests of youth and women leaders in relation to the protests, labeling them as misrepresentations. “The individuals involved are no longer recognized as leaders and were arrested along with Mr. Larry Eduvie Efekhoda for unlawfully obstructing a public road, disrupting order,” they asserted.
In light of the situation, the Enhwe community has demanded a retraction of false statements made by Mr. Akpobome Paul Emiyede and his group, along with a public apology within 48 hours. Should they fail to comply, the community will consider pursuing civil and criminal action for defamation and actions that may disturb public peace under Nigerian law.
