IRRI/Nigeria: History was rewritten in Irri, one of Isoko Nation’s largest and most influential clans, as the Odiologbo of Irri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi I, conferred the revered title of Clan Spokesman on Sir Itiako Constantine Onoriode Ikpokpo.
The Clan Spokesman, second only to the monarch and traditionally the official voice of the kingdom, is a title reserved for individuals of proven integrity, exceptional service, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of their people. For the chiefs and people of Irri, Ikpokpo’s elevation was not merely ceremonial; it was the affirmation of a legacy of service.
Once troubled by deep-seated leadership disputes and destructive battles over community resources, Irri had for years struggled under instability, loss of lives, and the collapse of its governance structure. With no functional constitution or acceptable leadership in place, the kingdom became fractured.
That trajectory began to change in October 2014 when Sir Ikpokpo assumed office as Chairman of Isoko South Local Government. Determined to restore order, he made Irri’s peace and reconciliation a top priority. One of his earliest interventions was insisting that the selection of a new king must follow due process—an insistence that eventually led to the installation of HRM J.F.E. Aghagba, Amathovo I, as Odiologbo of Irri Kingdom.
Ikpokpo further deepened the peace process, championing the drafting and ratification of a new constitution, facilitating broad consultations, and leading reconciliation efforts. Under his watch, Irri held its first peaceful elective conference in more than a decade, restoring calm and giving the kingdom a renewed sense of direction.
The peace achieved has since endured. After the passing of HRM Aghagba, Irri once again upheld due process, leading to the emergence of the current monarch, HRM Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi I, widely regarded as a principled and forward-looking ruler.
In recognition of Ikpokpo’s steadfast commitment to justice and order, the late HRM Aghagba had earlier honoured him with the title of Atanaru (Promise Keeper). On Friday, the new king and the traditional council took that recognition a step further by elevating him to the prestigious position of Clan Spokesman—the official voice of the kingdom.
The ceremony drew chiefs, elders, youths, and women from across Irri, many of whom described the honour as a “prophet being celebrated at home.” For them, Ikpokpo’s elevation symbolises a new dawn for the kingdom—a powerful reminder that integrity, courage, and selfless service remain deeply valued.
The historic moment marks not only a personal milestone for Sir Itiako Constantine Onoriode Ikpokpo but also a renewed chapter in the cultural and political life of Irri Kingdom.
