Tensions ran high over the weekend in Ugba, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, after the planned conferment of a chieftaincy title on governorship aspirant Sebastian Hon, SAN, was disrupted by the Executive Chairman of the Council, Mr. Clement Kav.
Hon had been invited by the Ugondu Traditional Council to receive the honorary title in recognition of his efforts to promote social justice in Nigeria, coinciding with the Ugba Day Celebration on Friday.
Trouble erupted when Hon and his entourage arrived at the residence of Mue Ter Ichongo, Chief Terngu Iorhuna, in Ugba, the headquarters of Logo LGA. Hon Kav reportedly arrived alongside former Nigerian ambassador to Russia and 2011 governorship candidate, Prof. Steve Ugba, displaying visible anger.
“I’ll never allow anyone to disrespect Alia,” Hon Kav was quoted as saying, referring to Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia. “We don’t want these guests in Logo.” He left the scene shortly after in vehicles adorned with the governor’s image.
Hon quietly departed the traditional ruler’s residence and later proceeded to the home of Hon. Iorkohol Ijir, where he was warmly received by supporters.
The council chairman reportedly returned with a police detachment led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and ordered Hon to leave Ugba.
Addressing the gathering before his departure, Hon clarified that he had no intention of causing conflict in Ugba or elsewhere in the state. He thanked the traditional council and the people of Logo for the honor, stating:
“I believe the Logo community has welcomed me. I haven’t come to scatter the community, so I pray that God blesses you for offering me a title that has given some people sleepless nights. I also pray for those persecuting me.
“I haven’t declared for the contest yet, and some people are already restless. So when I decide to run, what will they do? I don’t want anybody’s blood to be spilled because of me, so I’m going back, and the title should be brought to me.”
The incident has sparked debates across the state about political interference in traditional institutions and the role of local government officials in community events.