The Itsekiri socio-cultural body, Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILoT), has elected renowned lawyer Chief Edward Ekpoko as its chairman.
Another lawyer, Amorighoye Mene, was elected Secretary.
The change of leadership followed the decision of former Chairman Pa J.O.S. Ayomike, who turns 90 in April, to quit office because of his age and the need to take a break from active public service after 40 years.
In a statement by its spokesman Tony Ede, ILoT said the new developments were finalised on February 5, at an expanded meeting.
The statement said: “The Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILoT) had its expanded meeting on February 5, 2017, at Warri, Delta State. Members from across the country and in the Diaspora attended. At the end of its deliberation, the following resolutions were adopted.
“The body accept the request put forward by the Chairman, Pa J. O. S. Ayomike (who will turn 90 in April), to step aside, having served the body, Itsekiri, Delta State and Nigeria tirelessly for over four decades, to have a deserved rest. Similarly, Madam F. E. Rewane (who will turn 87 also in April), has equally requested to take a back-seat position in the body by relinquishing her position as Treasurer.
“Following this development, a new executive under the chairmanship of Chief Edward Ekpoko, a lawyer, was constituted. Sir A. S. Mene was appointed Secretary.”
Ekpoko, also chairs the Warri Study Group as well as Ijaw, Isoko and Itsekiri Leaders’ Forum.