OROGHO: Edo State Police Command has declared wanted one Sakaba Ekhator for his involvement in the murder of Osakpolor Akenzua son of the Enogie of Orogho Village in Orhionmwon local government area.
It was gathered that the said Sakaba Ekhator who hail from Orogho village in Abudu, Orhionmwon local government area of Edo State refused to step into the shoes of his father, the late Chief Priest of Orogho Village as the customs demand.
Investigation revealed that the customs and traditions of Orogho Village demand that the eldest son of the Chief Priest step into the shoes of his father after his demise. It’s necessary according to customs and traditions for the continuation of the Priesthood of the Community as the position is not allowed to be vacant longer than necessary.
According to report, Sabaka Ekhator is the heir apparent to the Priesthood of Orogho village, after the death of Chief Furguson Ekhator who happens to occupy that position for over 15 years. His refusal to be initiated into his father’s position and rejecting a wife given to him to marry following his Christian belief has sparked controversy and tension in the community.
It was gathered that Sabaka Ekhator’s refusal to step into the Priesthood position has angered the people of Orogho village which led the Enogie, HRH Patrick Osayande Akenzua to order the youths to arrest and bring him forcefully to his palace to give him reasons why he should not be initiate and giving a wife according to customs and traditions.
A reliable source identified as Osagie Olivia said the youths obeyed the order of the Enogie and brought Sakaba to his palace. He noted that the move angered some family members and youths who are not in support of forceful initiation.
“Sakaba’s refusal led to him being beaten by some overzealous youths and a reprisal attack on the place took place to rescue Sakaba Ekhator. The fracas at the palace led to the injury of Enogie’s son, Osakpolor Akenzua who was rushed to the hospital, and later he was reported dead.
“Some youths and family members of the Ekhators’ who heard of the death of the Enogie’s son knew there was trouble and made frantic effort to rescued Sakaba Ekhator”.
Another reliable source who doesn’t want his name mentioned in print said the death of Enogie’s son led to tension in Orogho village as the Enogie ordered the youths to search for Sakaba who had already escaped.
“The police were informed of the development and Sakaba’s uncle Ugiagbe Erahon was arrested and some other family members escaped for fear of being arrested.
“Following the escape of Sakaba his 10 hectares of land inherited from his father the Chief Priest was confiscated and seven out of it was sold. This got his family members angry as they have also been stopped from trading in the village market in Orogho”.
Investigation revealed that the Ekhators allegedly hired youths who went and set the Enogie palace ablaze leading to the arrest of four others but the whereabouts of Sabaka are yet unknown as the police declared him wanted.
As at the time of filing in this report, the police have concluded their investigation into the matter and found out that Sabaka Ekhators have been responsible for the havoc, damage done to the Enogie’s palace as well as the death of his son and have been declared wanted.
The police have called on the general public to furnish them with relevant information that will lead to the arrest of Sakaba Ekhator who will face the consequences of his actions as the law is no respected of persons.
