Delta state government on Friday said Olu-Odu, a satallite community of Ogwashi Uku kingdom in Aniocha Local Government Area (LGA) of the state has not been granted an autonomous status.

In a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said Olu-Odu matter was stepped down at the exco meeting on Thursday on the directive of the governor.

According to him, “We clarify that a memo seeking autonomy for the community was listed as one of the memos to be considered at the maiden 2025 meeting of the state executive council but was stepped down on the directive of His Excellency, the Governor, Rt Honorable (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori before the commencement of proceedings.

“We therefore wish to urge the general public to disregard the earlier publication erroneously granting autonomy to the community.”

The state government had also approved the presentation of staff of office to Obi Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko as the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom in Aniocha North LGA, the appointment of Obi Ben Azubuike Kanegede as the Ogene of Ibedeni in Ndokwa East, the appointment of Augustine Nzemeke Ezeaguna III, Obi of Egbudu-Aka Kingdom.

Meanwhile, the traditional ruler of Ogwashi Uku kingdom Obi (Dr ) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II had earlier reacted to the misleading information of Olu-Odu being granted autonomous status, saying that the state government couldn’t have done so because of its observance of the rule of law.

In a statement by the palace secretary to the Obi In council of Ogwashi Uku kingdom, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, Friday, the monarch who is a younger brother to the Director-General of World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said the government truly believes in due process.

Delta government had in 2024 set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry headed by Justice Ejiro Emudianowho to investigate kingship and land ownership disputes within Ogwashi-Uku and the neighboring communities including kingship status of Olu-Odu.

Blueprint reports that the Commission which has concluded its sitting and visits to sites of affected communities is yet to submit its report.