Traditional ruler murdered in Nigeria

A first class traditional ruler of Ugolo community in Ovia South West Local Government area of Edo State, HRH Solomon Udobor, was last Friday assassinated by unknown gunmen.

The gunmen were said to have shot the traditional ruler several times until he died in his Idele Street, Uwelu quarters, Benin City residence at about 7:30pm.

The late Udobor was aged 55.
THISDAY investigation showed that the murder might not be unconnected with the tussle for the Enogieship between Ugolo town and Etete, a neighbouring village to Ugolo.
Widow of the late traditional ruler, Mrs. Esther Udolor, told journalists that her late husband was crowned as Enogie of Ugolo clan in 1980.

According to her, another Enogie was crowned in Etete village two years ago which sparked crisis.

She, however, said the action was rebuked by the palace of the Oba of Benin who sanctioned those involved traditionally.

Mrs. Ugolo said her late husband had received several threats to his life, but resolved not to take the matter to the police because the palace of the Oba of Benin was already handling the issue.

Meanwhile, three persons have been arrested by men of the Ugbowo Estate police station in connection with the killing.

Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ugbowo, CSP Kunle Olusokan, confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspects would soon be transferred to the state police headquarters for further investigation.