The Isoko Heritage Group has expressed strong concern over alleged attempts by a Delta South senatorial aspirant to influence traditional institutions through financial inducement, warning that such actions, if true, could erode the sanctity and integrity of the Isoko traditional system.
In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Chief Ifoghale Agbuduta, the group said it had received credible reports of an alleged N250 million offers made to some Isoko traditional rulers in exchange for the conferment of a chieftaincy title, describing the development as troubling and unacceptable.
The group noted that while Isoko land is made up of autonomous clans with the prerogative to confer titles on deserving individuals, such honours must be based on merit, service, and community impact rather than financial inducement or political expediency.
According to the statement, “The revered institution of traditional rulership in Isoko land must not be reduced to a transactional platform where titles are negotiated or influenced by monetary considerations, particularly in the heat of political contests.”
The group revealed that the reported offer has sharply divided opinion among traditional rulers, with some rejecting it outright as a “Greek gift,” while others were said to be under pressure through ongoing lobbying efforts to align with the proposal.
Citing a source within the traditional institution, the statement questioned the timing and intent of the alleged offer, noting that chieftaincy recognitions are traditionally earned over time through demonstrated leadership and contributions to community development.
“It is worrisome that such an offer is allegedly being made at a critical political period when endorsements are being sought, raising serious questions about motive and respect for our cultural heritage,” the group stated.
The Isoko Heritage Group further referenced recent political gatherings in the region, including an endorsement event held in Emede, Isoko South, stressing that while political engagement is a legitimate democratic process, it must not compromise the neutrality and dignity of traditional institutions.
The group said it was particularly disturbed by growing attempts to draw royal fathers into partisan alignments, warning that such actions risk undermining public trust and unity within Isoko land.
“We call on all custodians of our culture and tradition to remain steadfast, impartial and guided by the values that have sustained our communities over generations,” the statement added.
The group urged traditional rulers across the 17 autonomous clans in Isoko land to resist any form of inducement and uphold the honour of their stools, emphasizing that history would judge decisions taken at this critical time.
It also called on political actors to pursue their ambitions through legitimate and ethical means, anchored on service, credibility and grassroots acceptance rather than attempts to influence revered institutions.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of Isoko heritage and values, the group maintained that the integrity of the traditional institution must be preserved at all costs.
“The Isoko nation must not allow its revered customs and institutions to be diminished by short-term political interests. Our culture is our identity, and it must be safeguarded,” the statement concluded.