The Ubiaja Traditional Council in Edo State has appealed to bloggers and members of the public to stop circulating unverified reports and making inflammatory comments on social media over the ongoing dispute involving the Onogie of Ubiaja, His Royal Highness Curtis Iredia Eidenojie, and his estranged wife, Mrs Ese Jane Iredia Eidenojie, née Ejodawene.

The council said the dispute, which it described as essentially a private family matter, had generated considerable public interest, with various accounts and commentaries emerging on social media.
 
In a statement jointly signed by Senator (Elder) Odion M. Ugbesia, for the Council of Elders, and Chief Omochiere Aisagbonhi, the council expressed concern that unverified, inaccurate or misleading publications could worsen the situation, embarrass the parties and undermine ongoing efforts to resolve the matter peacefully.
 
The council acknowledged the right of individuals to express their views but urged all concerned to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of inflaming tensions or further complicating the dispute.
 
Chief Aisagbonhi said the matter was currently before the courts and was also receiving the attention of the Ubiaja Traditional Council, which was engaging the parties and other relevant stakeholders in an effort to facilitate an amicable settlement.
 
“The Council wishes to emphasise that the matter is presently the subject of pending litigation and is also receiving the urgent attention of the Ubiaja Traditional Council, which is actively engaging with the parties and other relevant persons with a view to facilitating a peaceful and amicable resolution of the dispute,” he said.
 
He said the council remained committed to fairness, reconciliation and the preservation of peace, adding that any eventual settlement should respect the customs and traditions of the Esan people while taking into consideration the legitimate concerns and interests of all parties.
 
According to him, the traditional institution was hopeful that continued dialogue and good-faith engagement would lead to a satisfactory and lasting resolution.
 
The council therefore appealed to the parties, their supporters and members of the public to maintain peace, decorum and restraint, particularly while the judicial and traditional processes were ongoing.
 
It also urged the public to allow the appropriate traditional and judicial processes to run their course, stressing that peace, reconciliation and the dignity of all parties should remain the priority.