The Edo State Police Command has apprehended the recently deposed Chief Priest of Okhoromi village, Ovbokhan Igbinovia Kelvin, along with four other suspects during a coordinated operation that uncovered a cache of weapons and a human skull.
The arrest, which took place in the Iyekogba area of Oredo Local Government Area on Saturday, May 17, 2025, was the result of a joint sting operation led by the Command Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad in collaboration with the Anti-Kidnapping Squad.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the operation led to the arrest of Kelvin Igbinovia, 43, alongside Osarodion Omoregie, 41; Charles Otasowie, 55; Edwin Igbinovia, 45; and Osagie Igbinovia, 44.
Police said the suspects were found in possession of two AK-47 rifles with breach numbers TH4782 and 6683, two locally made single-barrel shotguns, three empty AK-47 magazines, one OFM magazine, eleven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a skull suspected to be of human origin.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, assured the public that investigations are ongoing and further efforts are underway to track down fleeing members of the criminal syndicate and recover more illegal arms.
The arrest comes just two weeks after the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, deposed Kelvin Igbinovia from his position as Ohen (Chief Priest) of Okhoromi over serious allegations, including land grabbing, extortion, and illegal demolition of properties.
Following a palace review of the community’s complaints, the monarch found Igbinovia guilty of actions deemed contrary to Benin customs and traditions, leading to his immediate removal.
Meanwhile, Pa John Edosomwan, the newly appointed Odionwere and traditional head of Okhoromi Village in Iyekeogba, Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, has expressed deep appreciation to Oba Ewuare II for entrusting him with the leadership of the troubled community.
During an inaugural meeting with elders and villagers, Pa Edosomwan pledged to offer transparent and accountable leadership and appealed for unity and cooperation from all community members.
Acknowledging the unrest that led to the removal of the former Ohen, Ovbokhan Kelvin Igbinovia, Pa Edosomwan said he would work closely with all interest groups within the village to prevent the recurrence of conflict and division.
He stressed his intention to govern in accordance with palace directives and bring about peace and development in a fair and inclusive manner.
He condemned the abuses of the past leadership, citing the forceful seizure of land, demolition of homes, and other related grievances.
To begin the healing process, he announced that plans were already underway, in collaboration with elders and youth leaders, to pacify and, where possible, compensate those whose lands were taken and homes destroyed, even as the community now faces limited land availability.
He disclosed that a palace delegation would soon visit the village to inspect the affected parcels of land and evaluate damages. Pa Edosomwan urged residents to remain supportive and committed to peace as they await further guidance from the Oba’s palace.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the Benin monarchy, praising the Oba’s swift intervention, which he said liberated the community from an oppressive and lawless era under the deposed Ohen.
