Witnesses Allege Confrontation Between UKB Chief, Councilman During Employee Meeting

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — We are investigating allegations of a confrontation between United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma Chief Jeff Wacoche and UKB Councilman Donald Adair during a meeting Monday morning, July 13, with employees affected by recent furloughs.

According to two attendees who requested anonymity because they fear retaliation, the meeting was held to discuss employees whose positions were funded through the American Rescue Plan Act and the Tribe’s efforts to place furloughed workers into other positions.

Both witnesses said Adair addressed employees and apologized, telling them, “We, as council, have failed you.”

According to both witnesses, Wacoche responded by criticizing Adair, saying, “You’ve been asleep the whole time. How would you know?” before the exchange escalated.

Both witnesses alleged Wacoche then directed profanity toward Adair, challenged him to step outside, and continued the exchange until Lighthorse officers intervened and escorted the Chief from the meeting.

The witnesses said the alleged confrontation occurred in the presence of furloughed employees, tribal directors, and other tribal officials attending the meeting.

One witness said the confrontation interrupted the meeting before employees received the explanation they expected regarding the furloughs. “It was sad,” the witness said.