Isoko Monarchs Divide Over N250m Offer to Confer Chieftaincy Title on Senatorial Aspirant

Isoko Monarchs Divide Over N250m Offer to Confer Chieftaincy Title on Senatorial Aspirant

A deepening rift has emerged among traditional rulers in Isoko land, Delta State, following an alleged N250 million offer by a senatorial aspirant seeking a high-profile chieftaincy title ahead of the 2027 elections.

The controversial move, believed to be part of efforts to secure political backing, has sharply divided the monarchs, with some rejecting the proposal outright while others are said to be weighing the financial incentive.

Sources within the traditional institution disclosed that the aspirant, who is contesting for the Delta South senatorial seat, is pushing for what has been described as an omnibus chieftaincy title, claiming he has never been conferred with one.

However, the offer has sparked outrage among a section of the rulers, who consider it inappropriate and inconsistent with long-standing customs.

One of the monarchs, who spoke on condition of anonymity, questioned the timing and motive behind the move. “You are offering a hefty N250 million for a chieftaincy title at the eleventh hour when in normal circumstances it should be free based on your performance while in office,” the source said.

The development has reportedly triggered intense consultations among the traditional rulers across the 17 autonomous clans that make up Isoko land, each of which holds the authority to confer titles on deserving individuals.

While a group of monarchs has vowed to resist what they described as a “Greek gift,” others are said to be under pressure amid ongoing lobbying efforts to align with the proposal.

The unfolding situation has added another layer of tension to the political climate in Delta South, where alignments and endorsements are already generating debate ahead of the next election cycle.

Only days earlier, the senator representing Delta South, Joel Onowakpo Thomas, hosted traditional rulers, political figures and members of the Isoko Development Union at his residence in Emede, Isoko South Local Government Area, where he secured endorsement for a second term in office.

The endorsement has since drawn criticism from some quarters within the district, particularly in the two local government areas in Isoko land, with critics questioning the process and timing.

As consultations continue among the monarchs, the controversy underscores the growing intersection between traditional institutions and partisan politics in the region.