A Delta South senatorial candidate, seeking endorsements ahead of the 2027 elections, reportedly offered N250 million to Isoko traditional rulers for an omnibus chieftaincy title, claiming he had never held one before.
Some prominent rulers have rebuffed the offer, calling it a “Greek gift” and vowing to reject it, while others are reportedly tempted by the large sum.
A traditional ruler, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “Offering N250 million for a chieftaincy at the eleventh hour is inappropriate. Such titles are usually earned through service and performance.”
Efforts are ongoing to persuade the more principled rulers to grant the title through lobbying. Meanwhile, the traditional rulers are consulting among themselves on whether to accept the offer.
Isoko comprises 17 autonomous clans, each empowered to confer chieftaincy titles. Last Saturday, Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South, hosted traditional rulers, politicians, and members of the Isoko Development Union (IDU) at his country home in Emede, Isoko South, securing endorsements for a second term in 2027.
The endorsement has drawn criticism from the broader Delta South community, particularly in two Isoko local government areas.
