Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborewori on Tuesday, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, and stability in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and its neighboring communities, as he received the report of the commission of inquiry set up to investigate the persistent kingship, and land ownership disputes in the area.
Speaking during the presentation of the report at the Government House, Asaba, the governor commended the efforts of the commission, established last year October, to investigate the causes of the conflicts that have plagued Ogwashi-Uku, and other neighbouring communities of Ibusa, Otulu, Ubulu-Okiti, Okpanam, Obodo, Ewulu, Azagba-Ogwash, Abor-Ogwash, and Olor-Ogwash.
“Today, I receive this report with great optimism because it represents an important step towards finding lasting solutions to the kingshipz and land ownership disputes that have caused so much unrest in Ogwashi-Uku and surrounding communities.
“This crisis has resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and a general sense of insecurity. It has also negatively impacted the local economy, making it difficult for businesses and individuals to thrive,” Gov. Oborewori stated.
The governor expressed his appreciation to the chairman, and members of the commission for their dedication and sacrifices, adding that the commission’s findings will provide profound insights into the root causes of the crisis, and offer a roadmap for sustainable peace.
Gov. Oborewori assured the people of Ogwashi-Uku, and its neighboring communities that his administration would act swiftly on the commission s recommendations.
Read also: Rivers crisis: God won’t abandon us halfway – Fubara
He said “we will commence the study of this report immediately. A White Paper on the findings and recommendations will be issued as soon as possible, and I want to assure all stakeholders that our decisions will be guided by fairness, justice, and the need for lasting peace.”
Reiterating his call for peace, the governor appealed to all warring communities to end hostilities and embrace dialogue.
He further urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, political figures, and community heads to play an active role in calming tensions and fostering unity.
“Leadership at all levels must be centered on peacebuilding,” he stressed. “We must learn to be our brother’s keeper. This is the only way we can ensure sustainable development and security in our communities.”
Presenting the report to the governor, the Chairman of the commission, Justice Ejiro Nina Emudianohwo, outlined the extensive work done by the panel, including reviewing historical records, analyzing testimonies from stakeholders, and examining traditional governance structures.
She noted that the report was guided by a need to respect customary practices, while addressing the disputes in a fair and legally recognized manner.
One of the key recommendations of the report, is the codification of the customary procedure for succession to the throne of Ogwashi-Uku.
According to the commission, formalizing the succession process in written form, will help prevent future disputes and ensure smooth leadership transitions.
The report also recommends the codification of Ogwashi-Uku’s customary law on the conferment of clan chiefs and other chieftaincy titles.
In addition to succession, and chieftaincy matters, the commission’s findings emphasized the need for a clearly defined hierarchy, and reporting structure among traditional leaders in Ogwashi-Uku.
Another major issue addressed in the report, is the recognition of the right to self-determination for communities seeking autonomy.
The commission advised that rather than suppress such demands, affected communities should be guided to follow due legal and administrative processes.
“We observed that disputes often escalate when communities feel their voices are not being heard. Ensuring that such matters are handled within the framework of the law, will foster peaceful resolutions rather than violent confrontations,” she stated.
