By Francis Sadhere, Warri
Delta State Government, Tuesday, reiterated its commitment to resolve the brewing intra-community land dispute involving Oligbo family of Ogbe-Iyase quarters in Akwukwu-Igbo community, headquarters of Oshimili North Local Government Area of the State.
The State Director of Protocols, Chief Sunday Onoriode gave the assurance while addressing indigenes of the community during a counter peaceful protest to Government House to debunk allegations of land grabbing against Chief Fred Ajudua.
Onoriode who commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct urged them to remain calm and law-abiding, adding that the State Government would do everything possible to bring a lasting solution to the dispute.
“Let me appreciate you on behalf of our Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for the peaceful conduct you have displayed today.
“Yesterday we received a group from your community in this same place saying that some strangers are entering their land unlawfully.
“We pleaded with them just like we are pleading with you now that our Governor is a man of peace and he loves peace so much.
“He has asked me to tell you all to continue living peacefully and harmoniously without problems. After yesterday’s protest the issue was referred to the appropriate department that handles conflicts and now that you are here we now know the two groups involved in this matter.
“The committee will invite stakeholders from both groups when they want to address your matter but above all you must remain peaceful and law-abiding,” Onoriode added.
The Oligbo family protesters led by Uyo Iyase Chief Paul Nwaebili, Uko Oligbo, Hyacinth Iwelu and Onwuenwuzor Anthony on the directives of Diokpa Iyase Emmanuel Sonwu said they embarked on the peaceful counter protest to correct the erroneous impression created by the dissident members of the family.
While urging the state government to disregard the earlier protesters, they said Chief Fred Ajudua was called to weigh in on the situation adding that no power of attorney had been given to him.
Carrying placards with various inscriptions such as; “Fred Ajudua is a liberator of the voiceless, he came to liberate the poor and voiceless”, “Disregard the rantings and blackmail of the rebels, they are motivated by greed”, “Okotomi Farm settlement will forever remain a communal land, even the court has ruled on it”, “Oligbo Family has mandated Chief Fred Ajudua with a power of attorney to go into Okotomi” among others, the group urged the State Government to call the earlier protesters to order and join hands with them for the growth and development of the community.
