The top two leaders of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma are battling for control of the tribe.

Chairwoman Brenda Shemayne Edwards won re-election in July. But she says Vice Chair Phil Smith and his supporters are attempting an illegal takeover of the tribe.

"Philip Smith and his supporters do not have control over the Caddo Nation," Edwards said in a post on the tribe's web site dated October 2. "They do not have control over personnel, they do not have control over the administration of grants, and they do not have control of the finances."

Smith, however, claims Edwards was recalled last month. He says he is acting as chair until the tribe can schedule a special election to fill the chair's post.

Edwards has closed the tribe's headquarters because she said Smith and his allies tried to break into the building.

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Caddo Tribe in leadership limbo (The Lawton Constitution 10/3)