The Onogie of Ewu, HRH Jafaru Isesele I, who was reinstated by the Supreme Court, has written to Governor Monday Okpebholo urging him to halt any plans to restore payment of emoluments to the deposed ruler, Prince Rasak Ogiefo.

In the letter, sent via the law firm of E. Olayiwola Afolabi SAN (Ref. No. EOA/GEN/68/25, dated 13 December 2025), Isesele also cautioned Acting Permanent Secretary Pauline Irusota of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, believed to have initiated the restoration, warning that such action could amount to contempt of court.

The Supreme Court, in Suit No. 147/2014, delivered on 19 July 2024, had removed Ogiefo and affirmed Isesele as the legitimate successor to the Onogie of Ewu throne, directing that the palace be surrendered to him.

Afolabi’s letter to the governor, also copied to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Justice, and Edo State Attorney General, stated:

“The previous administration stopped the payments following the judgment. However, it has come to our attention that a letter dated 12 December 2025 directed the restoration of financial benefits to Prince Rasak Ogiefo, who lost in all three tiers of courts. This is unlawful, illegal, and a direct affront to the Supreme Court.”

The letter urged Governor Okpebholo to withdraw the restoration letter within 48 hours and admonish state and local government officials to respect the authority of the Supreme Court, cautioning against actions that could scandalize the rule of law in Edo State.

Isesele and his legal team emphasized that the alleged restoration of payments, if carried out, would undermine the Supreme Court judgment and potentially create legal complications for the state government.