In a recent development, the traditional ruler of Ozalla Kingdom in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, known as the Onotare of Ozalla Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Nathaniel Igelugbo Omogbai, has taken the decision to strip the State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora Affairs, Uyi Oduwa-Malaka, of her honorary chieftaincy title.
The commissioner, who held the title of the Uzoyare of Ozalla Kingdom, was formally stripped of this recognition by the traditional ruler. Additionally, a certain individual named George Ohioma also faced the same fate, losing his title as the Ozemevboya of Ozalla Kingdom.
Both individuals have been banned from the palace with immediate effect, as conveyed in a press statement issued by the Palace spokesman, Dr. Osumah Obaze, and made available to the press in Benin City.
The statement further explained that the title previously bestowed upon George Ohioma is now exclusively reserved for “Ozalla freeborns.” The revocation of the commissioner’s title was emphasized as a warning to deter any future disrespect towards the revered throne.
The commissioner’s alleged misconduct included an incident on April 12, 2024, where she reportedly disrespected the monarch by requesting him to meet her in her car upon arrival at the palace.
Furthermore, the statement listed other offenses, such as openly insulting the Onotare during the Ivbamen festival and boasting about removing the traditional ruler from his position.
In a similar vein, the honorary chieftaincy title of Ozemevboya of Ozalla Kingdom granted to Barr. George Ohioma was revoked due to his actions of insulting and physically assaulting the Onotare of Ozalla in the presence of esteemed guests at the palace.
As a result, both Mrs. Uyi Oduwa-Malaka and Barr. George Ohioma have been ostracized from the palace, as declared by His Royal Highness, Nathaniel Igelugbo Omogbai. This decision is communicated to the public for their information.