May 14, 2026
- Fresh allegations have emerged against the Obi of Ogwashi-Ukwu Kingdom in Delta State, Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo, brother of World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The monarch is accused of land-grabbing, abuse of police powers, and intimidating critics in the community.
The allegations come amid growing controversy following the arrest and remand of activist Victor Ojei, also known as Wong Box, who was detained by the Federal High Court in Asaba over allegations of cyberstalking and defamation related to comments made about the monarch.
A source familiar with developments in Ogwashi-Ukwu claimed that the Obi has been using his political influence and security agencies to silence opposition and facilitate controversial land transactions. “He sells land to top politicians like the Deputy Governor, using those influences to oppress anyone who speaks against him,” the source revealed.
The monarch has also faced criticism for alleged illegal land dealings, including accusations of using fraudulent “consent judgments” in arranged lawsuits to claim land from residents of Ubulu-Okiti and Ubulu-Uku. Furthermore, a female farmer in Agiadiase community accused the monarch and his men of bulldozing her farm and destroying palm trees and irrigation facilities, resulting in millions of naira in damages.
In response to the growing tensions, the Delta State security council reportedly asked the monarch to abstain from land-related matters pending an investigation.
In 2024, a petition from TAEUN Ambassadors for Change raised concerns over the alleged kidnapping and disappearance of Francis Ekene Ugbah, accusing Ifechukwude Okonjo and his brother, Prince Onyema Okonjo, of being involved in violent land-grabbing activities.
Additionally, it was reported by PREMIUM TIMES that Ifechukwude Okonjo was convicted of theft in the United States in 1997, alongside his younger brother, Onyema Okonjo. Court documents revealed that the monarch was charged with stealing computer equipment worth over $300 between January and March 1995 in Montgomery County, Maryland.
The allegations against Okonjo and his involvement in land disputes continue to raise serious concerns in the community. The palace, however, claims that the monarch has been cleared of some allegations due to legal evidence of ownership.
Credit: Sahara Reporters
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