BY IFEANYI UWAGWU
THE Delta State Government, yesterday, constituted a Commission of Inquiry to address ongoing kingship and land ownership disputes within Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and its neighbouring communities. This follows a series of violent clashes that have resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of properties.
In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Kingsley Emu, the State Security Council, after deliberating on security reports from the affected areas, acknowledged the need for an impartial review of the underlying issues causing the conflicts. Consequently, the Governor of Delta State, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, has authorised the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry, tasked with investigating the immediate and remote causes of the crisis and providing recommendations for lasting peace.
The members of the Commission will be officially sworn-in on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 10:00 AM, with the following membership: Hon. Justice E.N. Emudainowho, Chairman; with Dr. (Mrs) Ajoritsedere Josephine Awosika; Dr. (Pharm) Paul Enebeli; Prof. Andrew Onokerhoraye; DCP Charles Dike (Deputy Commissioner of Police, Delta State); Barr. Moses Namo (Assistant Director, Department of State Services, Delta State), and Barr. Gabriel Ikemefuna Eze-Owenz (Director of Advisory Services, Ministry of Justice).
Pending the outcome of the Commission’s inquiry, the government has also suspended all activities of Clan Chiefs (Okwabanis), appointed by the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku in the affected areas.
These communities include Ibusa, Otulu, Ubulu-Okiti, Okpanam, Olodu, Ewulu, Azagba-Ogwashi, Aboh-Ogwashi, and Olloh-Ogwashi.
While the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku will continue to handle traditional matters within his kingdom, security agencies have been tasked with maintaining law and order during the period of the investigation.
This move is seen as a crucial step toward restoring peace and stability in the affected areas and resolving the long-standing kingship and land ownership disputes.
