Barely 48 hours after the dramatic removal of Kelvin Ovbokhan Igbinovia, the embattled spiritual head of Okhoromi community, the Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor, has threatened legal action against the community over what he described as a “malicious and unfounded” conspiracy allegation.
The controversy erupted following the deposition of Igbinovia by His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, on allegations of land grabbing, extortion, and unauthorized demolition of private properties — a development earlier reported by Hobnob News Nigeria on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
However, in a twist to the unfolding drama, members of the Okhoromi community had taken to the streets in a protest on May 14, just a day before the Ohen’s sack. The protesters, brandishing placards with inscriptions such as “Frank Irabor Stop Supporting the Evil Act,” accused Irabor of aiding the now-deposed priest in illegal activities, including the demolition of property and unlawful land allocations. They further alleged that Irabor had been rewarded with a parcel of land measuring 100 by 50 feet.
In a swift reaction, Irabor dismissed the allegations as “false, baseless and an orchestrated attempt to damage my reputation and that of my family.” He issued a seven-day ultimatum to the protesters, particularly Victor Aigbe John — identified as the spokesman of the demonstration — to retract their claims or face severe legal consequences.
“I am compelled to address the malicious allegations circulating about my alleged involvement with the Ohen of Okhoromi,” Irabor said in a statement issued on Friday. “The claims that I aided and protected the Ohen in demolishing property in the community and that I was rewarded with a 100 x 50 plot of land are entirely false and baseless.”
He emphasized that as a public figure and servant of the revered Oba of Benin, he remains committed to his duties, the values of justice, and the rights of all citizens — including those of the Okhoromi community.
Irabor also called on the relevant authorities to launch an investigation into the origin of the allegations and prosecute those found guilty of spreading false information intended to malign public figures.
“I vehemently deny any involvement in aiding or shielding the former priest, nor have I received any form of reward for such actions. I urge the community or anyone with evidence to come forward within the given timeframe, or be prepared to face the legal consequences,” he warned.
As tensions continue to simmer between the community and the Benin Traditional Council, observers await the outcome of the ultimatum and potential legal battles that may follow.
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