The Ubiaja Traditional Council in Edo State has cautioned bloggers and members of the public against inflammatory and unverified commentary on the marital dispute involving the Onojie of Ubiaja, His Royal Highness Curtis Iredia Eidenojie, and his estranged wife, Ese Jane Iredia Eidenojie, née Ejodawene.
The council said the dispute, which is currently before the courts, remains essentially a private family matter and should not be allowed to degenerate into a wider public controversy through social media publications.
In a statement jointly signed by Odion Ugbesia, for the Council of Elders, and Chief Omochiere Aisagbonhi, the council appealed to all parties and members of the public to exercise restraint and avoid comments capable of further worsening the situation.
‘The matter is presently the subject of pending litigation and is also receiving the urgent attention of the Ubiaja Traditional Council, which is actively engaging with the parties and other relevant persons with a view to facilitating a peaceful and amicable resolution of the dispute,’ Aisagbonhi said.
The council expressed concern over the circulation of what it described as unverified, inaccurate or misleading information about the dispute, warning that such publications could deepen disagreements between the parties and undermine ongoing reconciliation efforts.
It acknowledged the right of individuals to express their views but urged those commenting on the matter to exercise responsibility and avoid statements or publications that could cause embarrassment or unnecessarily inflame the situation.
The traditional council said it remained committed to fairness, reconciliation and the preservation of peace, stressing that any eventual settlement should reflect the customs and traditions of the Esan people while taking into account the legitimate concerns of all parties.
It therefore urged the parties involved, bloggers and members of the public to allow the judicial and traditional processes to run their course.
The council expressed confidence that continued dialogue and good-faith engagement could produce a peaceful and lasting resolution, while appealing to all concerned to prioritise peace, reconciliation and the dignity of the parties.