The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has issued an immediate suspension of the Ibedaowei of the Opokuma clan, King Boutua Aranka, a first-class traditional ruler.
According to The PUNCH, the suspension was officially announced through a statement released by Mr. Doubara Atasi, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the deputy governor, on Wednesday.
“His suspension was due to a reported case of falsehood and a misrepresentation of the chieftaincy laws of the state,” the statement said.
The statement also stated that in light of the allegations, a seven-member committee has been formed to investigate the claims made against King Boutua Aranka.
During the period of the investigation, the suspended monarch has been instructed to refrain from performing any duties associated with his position as the Ibedaowei of Opokuma clan or as a traditional ruler.
The suspension order will remain in effect until the committee completes its assignment and the government subsequently lifts the suspension.
The reasons behind the allegations and the subsequent suspension have not been detailed in the statement, and further information regarding the investigation’s progress remains forthcoming.
