Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken steps to address the issues surrounding the Oke-Oroma land dispute, announcing his decision to set up a commission of inquiry.
The governor stated this when he met with community leaders, residents, and victims of demolished structures at Oke-Oroma community in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Gov. Okpebholo, accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, said the commission of inquiry will investigate the issues around the land dispute and make appropriate recommendations to his administration.
He said if it is confirmed that the lands in contention belong to the people, the certificates of occupancy earlier issued to some persons will be revoked and the lands returned to their rightful owners.
“I remember that during my campaign here, I promised to come back, and now I am here. We hate injustice in this administration. That is why we are here and happy to meet all of you. We will listen to your voices.
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“In the next few days, I will invite you to the Government House and back it up with actions. Few days from now, we will set up a commission of inquiry to look into this land issue so that we will return your lands to you after the findings.
“We will check if the certificates of occupancy is already issued on the lands belonging to the people. If there is and the reports say so, I will revoke them and return the lands to the people.
“Continue to maintain the peace. As a government, our responsibility is to provide security. I will speak with the appropriate authorities in charge of security. Security personnel will come in here and restore peace,” Gov. Okpebholo assured the people.
