By DADA AYOKHAI
The Edo State House of Assembly has given clearance to the nomination of Prof. Roland Otaru, SAN, as a commissioner.
The nomination of the legal expert from Akoko Edo local government sparked some controversy in his community, particularly from his clan head, HRH Luckman Odamah III.
The monarch, HRH Luckman Odamah III of Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan, while thanking Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo for nominating Prof. Otaru, SAN, as commissioner—a first for their community—opposes his confirmation due to Otaru’s involvement in a long standing lawsuit against his nomination as a clan head.
Ultimately, the state assembly cleared Prof. Otaru without addressing the petition submitted against him by the clan head of the Ikpeshi/Egbigere community, HRH Luckman Odamah III.
The traditional ruler in a petition dated August 29, 2025, said the confirmation of the nominee would make him a judge over his case.
He alleged that Otaru had been in stern opposition to his ascension to the throne of his forefather, following the death of his father on September 11, 2011.
“Prof.R.I. Otaru has, since the death of my father, HRH, Momodu Odamah II, been working tirelessly against my nomination, traditional installation and eventual appointment by the State Government as a successor to my father.
According to the sources , the monarch may be seeking retribution, and Prof. Otaru’s nomination provided a perfect opportunity to retaliate against him for his involvement in a lawsuit aimed at halting the monarch’s ascension to the clan head position.
Despite the pending petition, the state assembly proceeded with Prof. Otaru’s clearance, allowing for his swearing-in and assignment of duties.
Notably, the assembly did not indicate whether it acknowledged the petition during the screening process.
During the review of the report from its Committee on Rules and Business, members of the House praised Prof. Otaru, highlighting his status as an accomplished scholar in the legal profession.
They also commended Gov. Okpevbolo for his selection.
Those who spoke during the assembly session included Hon. Adeh Isibor, Charity Aiguobaru, Osawonyi Atu, Sunny Ojezele, Sunday Aghedo, Maria Edeko, Donald Okogbe, and Kingsley Ugabi.
