By Etatsemi Onoriode
Sapele: Sapele/Okpe Community in Delta State that was embroid in leadership squabble has finally regained peace with the swift intervention of Chief Ede Dafinone, a former Delta Central Senatorial candidate and the Chairman of the Sapele/Okpe Community Land Trust Association after surmounting all intervening variables that characterized all peace process in the land.
Chief Dafinone, the son of Senator Chief D.O.D Dafinone, the Owhere of Okpe kingdom, while addressing representatives of all the various quarters in the community at Okpe hall, Olympia round about, in Sapele, affirmed that the gathering was to announce to the entire community a former handling over of the baton of leadership from Hon. Moses Ogodo led caretaker regime to the new caretaker committee led by Chief Americana Ayomanor in two weeks time.
Chief Dafinone, a Chartered Accountant/Technocrat reputed for his calm and unassuming disposition, told his people that posterity could only judge them well, if only they extend a good legacy and precedence to their children and generations yet unborn, appealing that they should learn to leave together as one, form a common bound of love as brothers/sisters and a stronger united front for the rapid growth of their land and as well shun all negative vices that are inimical to the progress of Okpe land.
Chief Ede averred that it was based on the wise decision of their monarch that the new executive officers were put in place so that they can move forward, hinting further that Hon. Moses Ogodo who is handing over in two weeks time, has submitted his letter of resignation and has accepted to continue working for the progress of his people.
He appealed to his people that they should now work together and as well forgive themselves in any area they may have been offended in the past, pointing out that there is nowhere misunderstanding, quarrelling and bitterness will take them since it will only deprive their children better opportunities that could possibly be diverted from the land because of their own quarrel, adding that they should all join hands to make the place prosperous.
Chief Definone charged them further never to be faced with the temptation of holding on to one position for too long but to leave same for another person after a while, so that great leaders could emerge from amongst the community that could aspire higher just as he appreciated all of them for been able to come together to resolve their differences.
The immediate past chairman of Sapele/Okpe Community, Hon. Moses Ogodo said he took into cognizance that Sapele Community is greater than one individual and personal interest hence he decided to hand over soon to another set of people, assuring that he will come back in two weeks to hand over to the Chief Americana Ayomanor’s led caretaker committee after completing his hand over notes.
Hon. Ogodo appreciated the people, his monarch the Orhue 1, Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, especially the Dofinone’s dynasty for the honour and privilege accorded him to serve his people, pledging his continued loyalty and support for the new excos adding that he stood only for the unity and progress of Sapele/Okpe people including those things that will move the community forward.
The new chairman of the Sapele/Okpe Community, Chief Americana Ayomanor, appreciated Chief Ede Definone for the good works and for his courage in bringing the people together, while applauding Hon. Moses Ogodo for his bold steps and undying love for his people, appealing that the people should rally round him by offering useful advice and suggestions that could make them succeed in their assignments, assuring that they will never betray the confidence reposed on them.
Some of the community leaders who spoke to journalists after the event, Mr. Ochuko Aweh and Hon. Elvis Ayomanor, lauded Chief Ede Dafinone for his wisdom and good initiatives in bringing a lasting solution and peace to the lingering crisis in their community while praying that God almighty should continue to protect and guide him and his entire family.
