Inside Eleme Newspaper, LIZPA House, No. 36 Refinery Road, Alesa/Eleme (2026)

11/09/2025

Indorama Host Communities Groan As Court Cases Stall Dividend Payments

By Emma Akogun

For over nine months, members of the host communities of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Company Limited (IEPL) have been left without their share of dividends, following a series of legal disputes that have stalled the disbursement of funds.

The dividends, which are normally managed and distributed through the various Community Trust Development Initiatives, have been withheld pending the resolution of ongoing cases in court.

The affected host communities include Aleto, Okerewa, Njuru, Akpakpan, Agbonchia, and Wakaoha in Elelenwo.

Inside Eleme Newspaper gathered that one of the major cases, Suit No. PHC/4186/CS/2024, currently before Hon. Justice Ben O. Whyte of the Rivers State High Court, Port Harcourt, has stalled payment since late 2024. The case has been characterized by multiple motions for joinder, counter-motions, and withdrawals, further complicating resolution.

In addition, aspects of the dispute have also been taken before the National Assembly Committee on Host Community, which has stepped in to mediate and explore possible solutions.

This is not the first time dividend payments have been halted. In November 2020, a similar legal action was instituted when Hon. Aforji Igwe, then member representing Eleme in the Rivers State House of Assembly, approached the courts on behalf of host communities. That case, presided over by Hon. Justice A. Enebeli, resulted in an interim order restraining payments pending arbitration. The impasse was only resolved in 2022 with the establishment of community-based trust boards, replacing the central management previously held under Elano Investment Limited.

Currently, tension is mounting across the host communities. Protests, town hall meetings, and consultations have been held by stakeholders pressing for the resumption of payments.

Beyond the legal hurdles, internal governance disputes have also contributed to the delay. The tenure of most of the community trust boards formed in 2022 has expired, yet several incumbent trustees are allegedly reluctant to vacate office. This, stakeholders say, is further obstructing the appointment of new boards and delaying access to funds.

Critics have also accused some trust boards of lack of accountability, mismanagement of funds, and imposition of projects that serve narrow interests rather than the collective good of the communities.

As frustration deepens among beneficiaries, the resolution of both the court cases and internal governance challenges remains critical. For now, the fate of the long-awaited dividends and the trust of community members in their leaders hangs in the balance.

11/09/2025

One Eleme Son, Two Daughters Get Key Appointments as Ibas Constitutes Eight Boards in Rivers State

By Dennis Naku

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has approved far-reaching appointments into eight statutory boards and agencies of the state, with three illustrious Eleme indigenes emerging prominently in the exercise.

In a Special Government Announcement issued on Wednesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika, Mr. James Epobari Ngochindo, a seasoned technocrat and former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, was elevated to serve as the new Accountant General of Rivers State.

Similarly, two Eleme daughters secured strategic roles in the newly reconstituted boards. Mrs. Onene Osila Obele-Oshoko was named Managing Director of the Rivers State Microfinance Agency, where Prof. Adolphus Joseph Toby will serve as Chairman, alongside five other members. In the same announcement, Laleobe Alemami Favour was appointed as a member of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme Board, chaired by Prof. Princewill Chike, with Dr. Vetty Agala retained as Executive Secretary.

Other key appointments announced include:

Rivers State University Governing Council chaired by former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Okey Wali, SAN.

Rivers State University Teaching Hospital Board with Dr. Sampson Parker as Chairman, while Prof. Chizindu Alikor remains Chief Medical Director.

Rivers State Waste Management Agency chaired by former Ikwerre LGA Chairman, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, with Wokoma Amakiri as Managing Director.

Rivers State Universal Basic Education Commission with Samuel Ogeh as Chairman.

Rivers State Senior Secondary Education Board chaired by Tony Egwurugwu.

Rivers State Internal Revenue Service chaired by Israel Egbunefu.

The statement added that the newly appointed board members and heads of agencies will be sworn in by the State Administrator on a date to be announced.

The appointments are widely seen as balancing political interests and rewarding competence, while also underscoring the rising profile of Eleme indigenes in Rivers State governance.

11/09/2025

Chief Nwosu Ngofa Inducted Into Aleto Council of Chiefs

By Paul Enokela

The Aleto community in Eleme Local Government Area has celebrated the induction of Chief Nwosu Ngofa into the Aleto Council of Chiefs, in a colourful traditional ceremony marked by age-long cultural rites and symbolism.

Speaking after the event, Chief Ngofa described the occasion as a deeply significant moment in his life, noting that the rituals performed were in line with Eleme customs and traditions.

One of the highlights of the induction was the killing of a dog (Ofe Ngbao), which he explained is a vital cultural rite for anyone seeking to be formally admitted into the council of chiefs.

“The killing of the dog is symbolic. It signifies acceptance by the chiefs and the ancestors. Without that rite, no one can be granted a place in the council of chiefs,” Chief Ngofa stated.

He further revealed that following the killing of the dog, the ceremony proceeded with the formal induction and initiation into the council of chiefs, which was performed by the King of Eleme, who also serves as the Clan Head of Aleto, alongside the Aleto Council of Chiefs.

Reflecting on his new role, Chief Ngofa called on the Eleme Council of Chiefs to continue upholding the values of peace, unity, and progress.

“My message is first of peace, unity, and progress. The Eleme Council of Chiefs is a symbol—a symbol of peace, a symbol of progress, a symbol of unity, a symbol of love and the collective strength of the Eleme people,” he emphasized.

The induction, witnessed by dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers, was described as not only a cultural celebration but also a reaffirmation of the enduring traditions of the Eleme people.

11/09/2025

Tinubu Reconstitutes HYPREP Governing Board, Trustees — Appoints Two Eleme Sons, Dr. Abraham Olungwe and Hon. Fred Igwe

By Jiji William

President Bola Tinubu has approved the reconstitution of the Governing Council and Board of Trustees of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).

A Monday statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development.

In the reconstituted Governing Council, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, will serve as chairman. Other members include Loanyie Barituka Victor, representing environmental non-governmental organisations; Bright Onyebuchi Jacob and Henry Obiabure, representing Niger Delta communities; Prof. Barinedum Nwibere and Baride Gwezia, representing the Ogoni community; and Gideon Onyebuwa and Dr. Ibikunle Omotehinse, representing the nine oil-producing states.

The President further appointed four alternate members, among them Eleme-born Dr. Abraham Olungwe and Maeba Ekpobari for Ogoniland, as well as Joseph Akedesuo and Beauty Warejuowei for the Niger Delta.

Also reconstituted was the HYPREP Board of Trustees, with Emmanuel Deeyah reappointed as chairman. Other members are Fred Igwe — an illustrious son of Eleme — and Dr. Fred Kpakol for Ogoni communities and stakeholders; Mrs. Dorcas Amos for other Niger Delta communities; and Chief Jide Damazio, who was reappointed to represent environmental NGOs.

11/09/2025

PH Refinery Shutdown a Deliberate Move to Favor Private Refinery — HOSCOM’s Dr. Obele

By Jiji William

The Host Community Bulk Petroleum Retailers at the Port Harcourt Refinery (HOSCOM),through its Administrative Secretary, Dr. Joseph Obele, has alleged that the shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) was not accidental but a calculated move by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to give an unfair advantage to a privately owned refinery in Lagos.

Reacting to disclosures by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) that the Port Harcourt refinery had been incurring financial losses prior to its shutdown, Dr. Obele insisted that the decision was deliberate and injurious to national interest.

“Ojulari’s decision to shut down the Port Harcourt refinery was intentional. They claimed it was for routine maintenance or sustainable assessment, but this is not true. NNPCL should be ashamed to proudly state its reliance on equity in a private refinery while shutting down its own facility,” Obele declared.

According to him, keeping government refineries dormant while leaning on a private operator undermines Nigeria’s energy security and exposes citizens to unregulated market prices.

“The nation-owned refineries serve as a price check against private refineries. By shutting them down, NNPCL has removed this crucial mechanism, allowing private operators to dictate prices of PMS, AGO, and DPK. That is why prices are already becoming outrageous,” he warned.

Obele faulted NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bayo Ojulari, for shutting down PHRC despite billions of dollars sunk into its revamp, arguing that skeletal operations should have continued during any review process.

Meanwhile, allied workers, engineers, and contractors under the HOSCOM Bulk Retailers Association of PHRC expressed deep disappointment that during a recent visit to Rivers State, Ojulari bypassed the refinery and instead went to the Nigeria LNG facility in Bonny.

In a joint statement signed by Sunny Nkpe, Joseph Obele, Emmanuel Inimgba, Tekena Ikpaki, and Dickson Obelley, the group described the omission as “a slap in the face” to workers and management of PHRC.

“While the LNG facility remains an important national asset, the Port Harcourt Refinery plays a vital role in Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity and deserves equal recognition and support. A visit to PHRC would have boosted morale and motivated the rehabilitation team working tirelessly to restore operations,” the statement read.

They warned that Ojulari’s conduct signaled a “worrying lack of interest” in the refinery’s rehabilitation, raising doubts about the priorities and commitment of NNPCL leadership.

The Port Harcourt Refinery, with an installed refining capacity of 220,000 barrels per day (bpd), has remained largely inactive despite receiving $1.5 billion for rehabilitation at the twilight of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. The facility has missed several restart deadlines, with NNPCL under former GCEO Mele Kyari at one point declaring it fit for production.

Since then, however, operations have been inconsistent. Only last month, Ojulari briefly hinted at a possible sale of the refinery before backtracking.

Industry analysts say the PHRC crisis highlights not only NNPCL’s governance failures but also Nigeria’s chronic dependence on imports. For decades, despite being Africa’s largest oil producer, the country has relied on 100% importation of refined petroleum products.

The recent commissioning of the $20 billion Dangote Refinery, expected to transform Nigeria into a net exporter of petroleum products, has itself faced challenges. International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria have been accused of refusing to prioritize domestic crude supply, preferring international markets instead.

Dangote has since dragged the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to court, seeking regulatory enforcement to compel IOCs to sell crude oil domestically. Reports suggest the billionaire industrialist may turn to Russian crude as a last resort after repeated frustrations in sourcing locally.

“If Nigerian oil is not available to Nigeria’s largest refinery, then where does that leave our energy security?” a top Dangote official asked.

HOSCOM and allied workers have called on Ojulari to urgently revisit his itinerary and conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the Port Harcourt Refinery, stressing that its revival is central to protecting Nigerians from arbitrary fuel pricing and ensuring long-term national energy security.

11/09/2025

Court of Appeal Affirms King Appolus Chu as Oneh Eh Nchia X
• Dismisses Okpabi’s Appeal

By Sam George Adeya

The protracted chieftaincy tussle in Nchia came to a decisive end on Friday, June 13, 2025, as the Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt Division, affirmed His Royal Highness, King Dr. Appolus Chu, as the authentic Oneh Eh Nchia X of Eleme Kingdom.

Delivering judgment in Appeal No. CA/PH/370/2023, Honourable Justice A. M. Talba dismissed all six grounds of appeal filed by Chief Bebe Okpabi, describing the case as “lacking in merit.” The appellate court upheld the earlier decision of the Rivers State High Court, which had declared King Chu the legitimate occupant of the revered stool.

The ruling re-echoes the judgment earlier delivered by Honourable Justice A. Enebeli of the High Court of Rivers State, who, after carefully examining the history, traditions, and customs of the Eleme people, recognized King Dr. Appolus Chu as the Oneh Eh Nchia X.

With this appellate decision, the authority of King Chu is now legally and traditionally consolidated, finally putting to rest years of contest over the stool.

The Oneh Eh Nchia Stool: Tradition and Legitimacy

The Oneh Eh Nchia throne is the highest traditional authority in Nchia, which comprises six clans— Ogale, Agbonchia, Aleto, Alesa, Alode and Akpajo. Each clan is represented by traditional rulers and chiefs, who collectively make up the Nchia Council of Chiefs and Elders.

Following the vacancy that was created in the stool after the former holder, King Philip Obele emerged as Oneh Eh Eleme, the chiefs and elders of the six clans of Nchia unanimously selected King Dr. Appolus Chu, who also serves as the Egbere Emere Okori Eleme. Their choice, they explained, was based on his proven leadership, wisdom, and ability to foster peace and unity across the land.

In keeping with Eleme tradition, the Council of Chiefs presented a bottle of dry gin at King Chu’s palace—a symbolic gesture signifying the community’s collective acceptance of his new role. By accepting the offering, King Chu formally assumed the sacred responsibilities of the Oneh Eh Nchia throne.

His Highness, Emere Peter Olukanwi, a respected custodian of Eleme heritage, gave a historic antecedent of King Appolus Chu's emergence as Oneh Eh Nchia and described his enthronement as deeply rooted in custom.

Hear him: “What happened was that the chiefs and stakeholders of Nchia, having considered the vacancy in the stool, unanimously appointed His Royal Highness, Dr. Appolus Chu, as Oneh Eh Nchia. It is a decision anchored on Eleme tradition and the will of the people.”

The Court of Appeal judgment, together with the earlier ruling of Justice A. Enebeli, can be found on the adjoining pages for readers who wish to study the detailed legal pronouncements.

11/09/2025

Aleto Council of Chiefs Gets New Secretary, Spokesman

By Emma Akogun

In a move to strengthen leadership and promote unity in Aleto Community, Eleme Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, King Dr. Philip Osaro Obele, Oneh Eh Eleme XI and Paramount Ruler of Aleto, has announced the appointment of new principal officers for the Aleto Council of Chiefs.

At a well-attended meeting held in the Aleto Town Hall, King Obele introduced Chief Eteh Osaro Elechi as the new Secretary of the Aleto Council of Chiefs and Chief Engr. Isaac Osaro Baajor as the new Spokesman.

The King charged the appointees to work with dedication for the peace, unity, and progress of Aleto, while also calling on sons and daughters of the community to put aside partisan interests and join hands in building a stronger and more prosperous Aleto.

“The unity, progress, and development of Aleto must be a collective endeavor. Every son and daughter of this land has a role to play in shaping our future,” King Obele declared.

In his acceptance remarks, the new Secretary, Chief Eteh Osaro Elechi—who also serves as Paramount Ruler of Okerewa Community—pledged to work closely with the King, the Council of Chiefs, and other stakeholders to advance the noble vision set for Aleto.

“His Majesty has noble plans for our people, and the Council of Chiefs is determined to ensure the progress of Aleto. That is our foremost duty,” he affirmed.
On his part, the new Spokesman, Chief Engr. Isaac Osaro, described the appointment as both an honour and a privilege. He assured the King and people of Aleto of his commitment to the mandate given to him.

“Our needs as a people are well known. What the King has done today is to set us firmly on the right path. We are resolved to work together to achieve our common goals,” he said.

The appointments have been widely received in Aleto as a strategic step to foster unity and drive development in the community.

11/09/2025

Eleme Kingdom Immortalizes Queen Njideka Appolus Chu at One-Year Memorial

By Sam George Adeya

April 11, 2025, marked one year since the passing of Her Royal Highness, Queen Njideka Eugenia Appolus Chu (Owa-Emere Do-Owe), beloved wife of His Royal Majesty, King Dr. Appolus Chu, The Oneh Eh Nchia X and The Egbere Emere I of Eleme Kingdom.

A solemn yet dignified memorial ceremony was held at the royal palace in Ogale, Eleme, where dignitaries from across Rivers State and beyond gathered to honour her life and legacy. In attendance were royal fathers from various ethnic nationalities, religious leaders, political figures, women’s groups, and community leaders, reflecting the deep impact she had across society.

A Life of Compassion and Service

Queen Njideka was remembered as an embodiment of compassion, generosity, and love. Her tireless efforts in building bridges of peace and fostering harmony within Ogale and Eleme Kingdom left indelible achievements that continue to inspire.

She was a respected figure in financial, religious, and social circles, holding several positions and touching lives through her exceptional service. She is survived by her husband, King Appolus Chu; her daughter, Ajuri; stepchildren; and extended family members.

Book Unveiling and Reflections

A highlight of the memorial was the unveiling of a deeply personal book authored by King Appolus Chu, titled “The Mystery of Death and the Grief That Comes With It.” The book chronicles the King’s journey of loss and remembrance, offering a heartfelt reflection on his late wife’s life and impact.

Readings from the book were delivered by the Queen’s only daughter, Ajuri Appolus Chu, alongside her step-siblings, moving the audience with poignant memories of love, care, and sacrifice.

Tributes from Dignitaries

The Emir of Borgu Kingdom, HRH Muhammad Sani Dantoro, prayed: “As she lived in peace while she was alive with people, may she also have peace in her grave.”

Former Minister of Women’s Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, offered words of comfort: “After this one year of mourning, God will give our dear royal king the fortitude to accept what He has done.”

A Statue for Generations to Remember

In honour of her memory, a statue of the late Queen was unveiled by prominent bishops and clergymen. King Appolus Chu explained the inspiration:

“I am missing one part of my life, one part of my soul. I keep breaking down from time to time. That is why I try to put a legacy like this statue for her one-year memorial, so that tomorrow she will not be forgotten or swept under the carpet. Such a precious soul deserves to be remembered forever.”

The unveiling was followed by wreath-laying at her graveside and the cutting of a posthumous birthday cake—symbols of enduring love and remembrance.

A Daughter’s Tribute

In a touching tribute, Ajuri, the Queen’s only daughter, said:
“I miss my mother, the way she took care of me and everything. May her perfect soul rest in peace.”

The End of Mourning, The Continuation of Legacy

According to Eleme tradition, the one-year memorial marked the formal end of King Appolus Chu’s mourning period. Yet, for the royal family and the people of Eleme Kingdom, the Queen’s legacy of love, compassion, and selfless service remains alive.

Her memory continues to serve as a guiding light, inspiring generations to embrace peace, unity, and service to humanity.

May her soul rest in peace.

11/09/2025

Unity Is Our Strength, King Obele Warns As He Addresses Eleme Council Of Chiefs

By Paul Enokela

His Royal Majesty, King Dr. Philip Osaro Obele JP., Oneh Eh Eleme XI, has called for unity and togetherness among the people of Eleme, warning against disunity and frivolous disputes that weaken the community while outsiders encroach on Eleme land.

Speaking during a meeting of the Eleme Council of Chiefs at his palace in Aleto, the monarch recalled historical lessons such as what happened to Numaa in Ebubu, stressing that division had always been the undoing of Eleme people.

“They are encroaching on our lands from back, left, right and center. Instead of us to unite and expand, we are busy quarreling over meaningless things. Unity is our strength, togetherness is our strength,” King Obele declared.

The King noted that the primary role of the Eleme Council of Chiefs was to pursue justice through reconciliation and settlement of disputes rather than by pronouncements alone. He emphasized that Eleme people are few in number, making unity and peace more critical for survival and growth.

Citing a recent case involving Chief Ambrose Yaya of Ebubu, the monarch lamented that instead of cooperating with the Council’s invitation to resolve a community matter, Chief Ambrose opted to engage lawyers and sue the Eleme Council of Chiefs, including the King himself and the Secretary, Chief George Osaro.

“Eleme Council of Chiefs did not sue you. It was your own people who brought the case before us for settlement. But before we could realize it, Ambrose went to a big lawyer, sued me, sued Chief Osaro, and later even engaged a Senior Advocate of Nigeria against us,” the King recounted.

He warned that such actions only multiply conflicts rather than resolve them, adding that those who seek equity must approach the Council with clean hands.

The monarch referenced past experiences in other communities, urging leaders and youths to learn from history and avoid mistakes that have led to communal setbacks.

As part of the resolution, King Obele pronounced sanctions, directing Chief Ambrose and his associate Sunday Goya to provide two cows, cartons of assorted drinks, tubers of yam, palm wine, Campari, Kai Kai, schnapps, and a monetary payment of two hundred thousand naira each, as part of reconciliation and settlement.

He concluded by reminding the chiefs that the Council exists to preserve peace, dignity, and the collective progress of Eleme people.

11/09/2025

Former Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Netherlands Reflects on Political Journey, Urges Steadfast Support for Gov. Fubara
• As Supporters Storm Residence with Surprise Birthday Celebration

By Emma Akogun

Port Harcourt, Rivers State — It was a moment of excitement, camaraderie, and heartfelt reflections on Sunday, August 24, 2025, as members of the Transformation for Good Governance, Eleme Chapter, paid a surprise birthday visit to Chief (Hon.) Ambassador Oji Ngofa at his Port Harcourt residence.

The political family of the former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands stormed his home in funfair style, accompanied by trumpeters, drummers, and jubilant supporters, to celebrate the day with him. The visibly elated Ngofa, who also served two terms as Executive Chairman of Eleme Local Government Council, welcomed his guests warmly and expressed deep gratitude for the surprise gesture.

In a candid and inspiring speech, Ambassador Ngofa reflected on his life journey — from his early days after youth service, working at DBN and IPCO as a personnel manager, to his role in creating opportunities for Eleme youths before venturing fully into politics. He recalled the challenges of opposition politics, recounting moments of violent attacks, loss of property, and the sacrifices made by supporters in the fight for the political emancipation of the Eleme people.

“Leadership is not about money. People follow you because of the values you represent. That is what has sustained us through the toughest battles,” Ngofa told his supporters, urging them to remain steadfast.

The diplomat and grassroots mobilizer reaffirmed his loyalty to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, expressing confidence that the governor would return for a second term. He also assured his political family that despite current political uncertainties, “everything will be clear and everything will be fine.”

In lighter moments, Ngofa joked about the conspiracy behind the surprise visit, noting that he had always maintained he would not celebrate birthdays until he turned 60, in memory of his late father who passed at 59. “When I eventually organize my birthday, the whole of Rivers State will be on standstill,” he said to loud cheers.

He further recalled the historic formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Eleme on 13th September 2013 at Alode, highlighting the sacrifices and resistance that shaped its foundation.

Dignitaries who graced the surprise visit included Prince Mike Awalanta Ejire, Hon. Emmanuel Olaka, Comrade Walter Olaka, among several others.

The event, though unplanned, turned into a day of bonding, gratitude, and political reaffirmation, leaving Ngofa’s residence buzzing with music, laughter, and memories of shared struggles.

11/09/2025

From Division to Unity: The Journey of Eleme Kingdom from King Ejire’s Demise to Historic Unification

The story of Eleme Kingdom’s traditional leadership over the past decade is one of trials, disputes, and ultimately, reconciliation. It is a journey that began with the passing of a revered monarch and has culminated in an unprecedented unification that has brought peace, hope, and progress to the people of Eleme.

The Passing of King Ejire and Rise of King Obele

On December 6, 2018, His Royal Majesty, Sir Dr. S. O. Ejire, the 10th Oneh Eh Eleme, joined his ancestors. Following his demise, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Philip Osaro Obele JP, emerged first as Acting Oneh Eh Eleme and was later enthroned as the substantive successor to the throne.

Before his emergence, three prominent sons of Eleme—King Dr. Appolus Chu, HRH Emere Godwin Bebe Okpabi, and HRH Emere Engr. Paul N. Obelley—had expressed interest in occupying the ancient traditional stool. Dissatisfied with the process that produced King Obele, King Dr. Appolus Chu challenged the decision in Suit No: PHC/2478/2019, seeking several reliefs including a declaration that King Obele’s announcement as Acting Oneh Eh Eleme by then-Governor Nyesom Wike was contrary to Eleme native law and custom.

Early Attempts at Settlement

While the suit was pending before Hon. Justice A. Enebeli, His Grace, Archbishop I. C. O. Kattey, alongside Prof. Sunday Lale, Rev. Engr. Loveday N. Nwafor, and Barr. Anthony Enyindah, attempted to broker peace. The effort, however, collapsed. Despite the stalemate, in 2019, Governor Wike formally recognized and presented a staff of office to King Obele as the 1st Class Traditional Ruler of Eleme.

The matter was later transferred to Hon. Justice Boma G. Diepiri, and another settlement committee was formed—this time led by Chief Harrison Onungwe, Hon. Onorwi Ngofa, Chief Augustine Ngaa, Chief Adeya O. Adeya, and Chief Hon. P. E. Chujor. With the active participation of counsels C. D. Asomeji Esq. (for King Chu) and J. O. Chichi Esq. (for King Obele), the second peace effort succeeded. On March 18, 2024, the High Court adopted the terms of settlement wherein both parties agreed to sheath their swords and work together for the peace, unity, and progress of Eleme Kingdom.

The Oneh Eh Nchia Dispute: King Chu and Emere Bebe Okpabi

Parallel to the Eleme kingship dispute was a prolonged tussle over the stool of the Oneh Eh Nchia. In Suit No. PHC/403/CS/2000, brought against Chief Bebe Okpabi, the High Court of Rivers State under Justice Adolphus Enebeli affirmed that the people of Nchia had duly chosen King Dr. Appolus Chu as the Oneh Eh Nchia X, and his enthronement on April 24, 2020, was valid and subsisting.

Tensions heightened when Chief Bebe Okpabi was convicted of contempt of court in Suit No. PHC/3032/CS/2023 and sentenced to two months imprisonment without an option of fine by Hon. Justice C. N. Wali on May 16, 2024. Despite appealing both the substantive judgment and the contempt ruling, the Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt, on June 13, 2025, under Honourable Justice A. M. Talba, dismissed all six grounds of his appeal. The appellate court conclusively reaffirmed King Dr. Appolus Chu as the legitimate Oneh Eh Nchia X of Eleme Kingdom, thereby settling the long-drawn dispute.

The Historic Unification of August 16, 2025

With these legal and traditional disputes resolved, Eleme Kingdom turned a new page on Saturday, August 16, 2025. On that day, the kingdom witnessed a grand unification ceremony at the palace of His Majesty, King Dr. Philip Obele, Oneh Eh Eleme XI.

The event, attended by King Dr. Appolus Chu, Oneh Eh Nchia X, brought together traditional clan heads, chiefs, elders, women, and youths from across the land. In a symbolic gesture, King Obele led prayers and performed sacred rites, ushering in an era of peace, unity, and collective progress.

King Obele described the accord as the final closure to divisions dating back to the Nigerian Civil War in 1970. King Chu, visibly elated, declared:

“This is a historic day for our kingdom. For over five decades, we have been divided, but today we stand united. I promise that we will work together to build a brighter future for our people.”

The unification marks the first time in over 55 years that the Eleme chieftaincy institution has spoken with one voice. It is seen not only as the end of a turbulent chapter but also as a new dawn for Eleme Kingdom—one of peace, stability, and shared progress.

A New Era for Eleme

As Eleme embarks on this new journey, the unity of King Obele, King Appolus Chu, and the reconciled traditional leadership is widely regarded as a milestone achievement. The people of Eleme now look forward to a future where peace, development, and harmony will reign supreme across the land.

Monday	07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday	07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday	07:30 - 18:00
Thursday	07:30 - 18:00
Friday	07:30 - 18:00
Saturday	07:30 - 18:00

Inside Eleme Newspaper

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

11/09/2025

Address

Opening Hours

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share