Odokomit, Lango Sub-Region – In a powerful display of unity, more than 100 clan chiefs (Rwot and Jago) from the Okii Raki Okwero Cobo clan have issued a resolute declaration, stating that they will never recognize any individual other than Mr. Emmy Joe Odongo as their legitimate clan head.
The declaration was made during a high-stakes meeting held at Mr. Odongo’s residence in Odokomit. The gathering, which saw a massive turnout of traditional leaders, was called to address growing confusion regarding the clan's leadership and to respond to what they termed "illegitimate maneuvers" by a faction led by the former clan head, Shabab Alunga Atepo.
Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, the leaders made it clear that they are completely unaware of any new election being organized by Mr. Alunga Atepo. They dismissed the attempts as a move by outsiders to destabilize the clan for personal gain.
"It is high time we prove to those who think they are using us as their ladder to power that we are solidly behind Emmy Joe," one of the senior chiefs stated. "We are not pawns to be moved around for personal ambitions. Our loyalty is to the rightful leader we have chosen."
The meeting took a serious turn as the chiefs raised concerns over financial mismanagement within the clan. They cited a painful episode during the tenure of the previous leadership under "Alunga," where members contributed significant funds intended for the construction of the clan’s headquarters, known as "Abila," in Bar Sub-County.
According to the clan leaders, despite the collection of substantial sums from the community, the construction project has stalled, with nothing to show for the investment.
"We collected money from our people for the 'Abila,' but up to now, nothing has happened," a chief lamented. The leaders are now demanding full accountability. They insist that those responsible for the loss of their money must be held accountable and brought to book to answer for the missing funds.
In his address to the gathering, the embattled but emboldened Clan Head, Emmy Joe Odongo, urged his supporters to remain steadfast and unshaken by the opposition. He cautioned his followers against those he described as "moving and deceiving people" with false promises of leadership change.
"Let my members not be shaken by those who are moving around deceiving our people," Odongo stated. "They are misleading you, but the truth is here. I call upon all true sons and daughters of this clan to come and join me in building our future."
Odongo further called for unity, asking his followers to ignore the "noise" from the opposition and focus on the development and welfare of the clan, reiterating that his leadership is the only one recognized by the traditional structures on the ground.
As it stands, the Okii Raki Okwero Cobo clan appears to be at a crossroads, with a clear majority of traditional chiefs backing Odongo. However, the faction led by Mr. Alunga Atepo is yet to respond to the claims and the rejection of their electoral process. The demand for financial accountability over the "Abila" headquarters remains a pressing issue that could lead to further internal conflict or litigation.
