Ovie of Mosogar Kingdom Suspends Chiefs, Derobes One for Attending Olu of Warri’s Coronation Anniversary
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Ovie of Mosogar Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Uduaka I, has announced strong disciplinary actions against members of his traditional council who attended the recent coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, describing their actions as a betrayal of trust and a gross act of insubordination.
During an extraordinary meeting at his palace on Sunday, August 24, 2025, the monarch indefinitely suspended seven chiefs and officially derobed one, Chief Blessing Agboma, who had earlier been recommended for removal. The decision was made public through a statement signed by Chief Silver Anuwa, Secretary of the Ovie-in-Council of Mosogar Kingdom.
Reasons for the Sanction
According to the statement, the actions of the affected chiefs undermined the dignity, unity, and integrity of Mosogar Kingdom. His Majesty stressed that such behaviour prioritised personal interests over the collective good of the kingdom. The monarch said the stern action was necessary to serve as a deterrent to others.
Chief Blessing Agboma’s derobing marked the highest level of sanction, as he has now been formally excommunicated from the Mosogar Council of Chiefs and Elders. The Ovie directed that he should no longer be recognised or addressed as a chief in Mosogar Kingdom.
Restrictions Imposed
In addition to the suspensions, Uduaka I prohibited the erring chiefs from wearing traditional regalia, including the “aghighor,” until further notice. This measure, according to the Ovie, is to restore respect and discipline within the kingdom’s traditional leadership system.
“This decision is to restore the battered image, shame, damage, denigration, and humiliation the actions of the affected chiefs have caused Mosogar Kingdom. May God bless Mosogar Kingdom,” the statement read.
Role of Chiefs in Urhobo Culture
In Urhobo tradition, chiefs play vital roles in governance, cultural preservation, and community leadership. They are expected to defend the monarch’s authority, represent their communities, and maintain loyalty to the throne. Suspension or derobing is considered one of the gravest cultural sanctions, stripping an individual of authority, recognition, and respect within the traditional system.
By derobbing Chief Agboma, the Ovie has effectively declared him an outsider to the kingdom’s traditional authority—an uncommon and weighty disciplinary action.
Implications of the Decision
The Ovie’s ruling carries significant implications:
- Loss of Authority: Suspended chiefs are barred from participating in council deliberations or representing the kingdom in any official capacity.
- Reputation Damage: The sanctions severely diminish their social standing and influence both within Mosogar and beyond.
- Deterrence: The move serves as a stern warning to others about the consequences of disloyalty.
- Preservation of Tradition: The action reinforces the sanctity of Urhobo customs and the supremacy of the monarch’s authority.
This unprecedented decision underscores the seriousness of loyalty within the Urhobo traditional system and signals the Ovie’s determination to safeguard the integrity of Mosogar Kingdom.
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