Elders and physically challenged persons from Ukhomunyo clan in Okpella, Estako East local government area, on Wednesday, staged a peaceful protest in Benin City, over selection of a new Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.

Governor Monday Okpebholo had sacked Lukman Akemokue as Okuokpellagbe and a new selection process led to the emergence Michael Sado.

Sado is expected to be installed next month.

But the protesters said was their turn to produce the next Okuokpellagbe.

They claimed their kingmakers were not allowed to participate in the selection process, adding that the selection and subsequent appointment of Sado as the new king were at variance with laws on the appointment of the Okuopkallagbe.

Representative of the Ukhomunyio Council of Village Heads, High Chief Julius Ederefo said the selection of a new monarch was unfortunate and failed to reflect the image of an administration that stood for the rule of law, justice and fairness.

“We had hoped for a clean break from the unlawful actions of the past. We beg rhe governor to cancel the flawed and unlawful process that led to the purported appointment of Michael Sado.

“Direct the Ukhomunyio branch of the Oteku Ruling House, whose turn it is to present an Okuokpellagbe, to convene and commence a process to select a candidate in strict compliance with the provisions of the declaration.”

President of the Ukhomunyio Youth Association, Comrade Merry Omoalu, they would continue the protest. (The Nation)