Delta Community Celebrates as Supreme Court Ends 40-Year Kingship Dispute

There was widespread jubilation in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Delta State, on Tuesday following the Supreme Court’s final dismissal of an appeal filed by the UmuDieyi Family, marking the end of a 40-year-long kingship dispute.

The legal battle, which has lingered for decades between the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family and the UmuDieyi Family, revolved around rightful ownership of the Ogwashi-Uku royal throne, currently occupied by Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo.

In its ruling on June 24, 2025, in Suit No. SC/CV/1036/2022, Nigeria’s highest court struck out the appeal brought by Chief Francis Njokanma, Felix Izediunor, and Wilson Izediunor, who represented the UmuDieyi Family. The decision reaffirmed the 2022 ruling which had earlier gone in favor of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.

The ruling prompted celebrations across the community, with youths and elders expressing gratitude for the end of the protracted legal crisis that had fueled tensions for years.

Prince Onyema Okonjo, speaking on behalf of the victorious royal family, hailed the judgment as a landmark victory for justice and tradition. He appealed to the UmuDieyi Family to respect the decision, cease any further attempts to dispute the throne, and vacate areas around the Royal Palace.

“We will no longer tolerate actions that seek to divide our people or challenge a final court ruling,” Okonjo warned, noting the judgment will help strengthen the kingdom’s traditional institutions.

Legal experts have also described the latest decision as conclusive, adding that any further legal challenge would amount to an abuse of court process.

The ruling marks a significant chapter in Delta State’s traditional history, bringing long-awaited closure and stability to Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.