HRH Omieibimaba Orubuiyi Odum VIII, the Amanyanabo of Bakana Community in the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State has cried out over what he called “series of death threats to his life and that of his children” by suspected opponents.
Addressing newsmen in his Palace at Bakana on Monday, the monarch alleged that there are clandestine moves to assassinate him and some of his children. The Monarch accused his opponents who contested the ancient Odum Kingship stool with him. The Amanyanabo who expressed total faith in God believed strongly that no man can take his life and that of his children’s. “I believe in the Almighty God. I know that no man can tamper with my life and that of my children. Because God is my protector and deliverer,” Odum VIII said.
He told the newsmen that he remains the Amanyanabo of Bakana, adding that a competent Court of jurisdiction had already declared him as Odum VIII. The Bakana King, further maintained that he resides in his domain as contrary to the thinking of some wicked elements that, the Amanayanabo is on the run.
“I do not know why people are always talking rubbish and things that are not important. I am always at home as the King of Bakana. And some people are saying that I am not staying at home, they should come to Bakana, and they will see me. Where will I go? Who will I leave my domain for? I am the Odum VIII,” the Monarch declared.
The royal father sent a fresh appeal to the new Commissioner of Police, Mr. Dan Bature to intervene in the Bakana crisis, alleging that some of his opponents who have lost out in court are still parading themselves as chiefs.
He, however, used the forum to inform the public that one Chief Captain I. I Braide (rtd) has been removed from the Chieftaincy Council, due to his funny activities in the community.
Odum VIII, called on the people within and outside Bakana not to have any dealing with him, that Mr. I. I. Braide remains expelled from the Bakana Council of Chiefs.
“Mr. Ibani Braide is not a Chief in Bakana. I have removed him from the Council of Chiefs long time ago,” Odum VIII said.
The King had earlier advised the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Hon. Charles Okaye not to take information and order from his opponents who are roaming aimlessly on the streets of Port Harcourt looking for ways to cause crisis in the community.
The Amanyanabo called on Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and the security agencies to urgently wade into the kingship tussle to ensure that peace reigns in his domain.
“I am a man of peace. I want the Governor who is the father of the state and all the security agents to come Bakana to bring in peace and order. Because we do not have any place to call our home, except the Bakana Community,” HRH Orubuiyi Odum VIII asserted.