The Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF), a coalition of prominent sons and daughters of the Ayuele Clan, has raised alarm over what it described as a rapidly escalating crisis in Agbede community, calling on the Edo State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
In a statement jointly signed by several members of the coalition on Sunday, ASF accused Mr. Shayawu Momodu and his supporters of unlawful actions capable of destabilizing the community following the succession dispute over the Agbede traditional stool.
According to the ASF, the dispute began after the death of the late traditional ruler, Oba M. S. Momodu, which led to a prolonged contest over the rightful successor to the throne.
The Front said the matter was eventually decided by the Federal High Court on January 12, 2026, when the court delivered a judgment affirming the lawful order of succession strictly based on seniority among the sons of the late monarch.
However, the Front alleged that, despite the clarity of the judgment and before the Certified True Copy of the ruling could be obtained for implementation, some individuals hurriedly carried out what it described as a secret and unauthorized installation of Mr. Shayawu Momodu as the Oba of Agbede.
ASF further alleged that Mr. Shayawu and his supporters subsequently forced their way into the Agbede Palace, which had earlier been locked pending lawful installation procedures.
It said the development occurred despite a formal suspension order issued by the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as a High Court injunction restraining Mr. Shayawu from parading himself as the traditional ruler of Agbede.
According to the group, Mr. Shayawu has continued to occupy the palace and present himself as Oba in defiance of the orders.
The coalition described the actions as criminal trespass, contempt of court, disobedience to lawful authority, and a direct threat to peace and security in the community.
ASF stated that it has been working to calm youths in the area and discourage any form of self-help, but warned that the continued provocation and disregard for court orders have created a tense and volatile atmosphere.
The group warned that if urgent steps are not taken by authorities, the situation could escalate into violent confrontation.
ASF therefore called on the Edo State Government to order the immediate eviction of Mr. Shayawu and his supporters from the Agbede Palace and ensure full compliance with all lawful directives and court rulings.
It also urged the Nigeria Police Force in Edo State to deploy officers to maintain peace, prevent further provocation, and prosecute those allegedly involved in criminal trespass and contempt of court.
The group further appealed to the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate individuals whose actions could destabilize the community and threaten internal security.
While reiterating its commitment to peace and lawful resolution of the chieftaincy dispute, the Ayuele Solidarity Front urged members of the Ayuele Clan and residents of the community to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while awaiting government intervention.
Endorsed for the Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF):
1. Hon. Zak A. Momoh, Former Member, Edo State House of Assembly
2. Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director, Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education
3. Barr. Faruk Mahmud, Former Vice Chairman, Etsako West LGA
4. Mr. Sanni Zuberu, Retired Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP)
5. Alh. Audu Mohammed Jamiu, President, AMCOSA
6. Hajia Fati Yesufu, Women Leader, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
7. Mallam Nurudeen Ibrahim, ASF Diaspora Representative
8. Mallam Mawi Mahmud, Member, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
9. Mallam Abdulrazaaq Danoyars Suleiman, FCT-Abuja Coordinator, IYDEF-PEF
10. Hajia Mariam Shuaibu, CEO, MARIBRA Pharmacy & Stores Ltd.
11. Mallam Shehu Sumaila, Member, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
12. Alh. Imador Musa, Member, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
13. Mallam Shuaibu Mahmud, Member, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
14. Mallam Abdulwahab Shuaibu, Member, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
15. Abiodun H. Yesufu (Mrs), Member, Ayuele Solidarity Front (ASF)
