- As Commission of Inquiry On Ogwashi-Uku Land Dispute Begins Hearing Next Wednesday
The Commission of Inquiry set up by the State government to look into the lingering kingship and land ownership disputes within Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State, and its neighbouring communities, has assured communities and stakeholders of its resolve to be fair, neutral and impartial in the conduct of its assignment.
The chairman of the Commission, Justice Ejiro Emudainowho, gave the assurance while addressing representatives of the various communities and their legal teams at the inaugural sitting of the Commission at the Press Centre, Government House, Asaba.
Justice Emudainowho, who announced that the Commission of Inquiry would commence hearing on Wednesday next week, said the panel was made up of men and women of proven character and integrity and was committed to uncovering facts, examining evidence and hearing all perspectives with fairness.
She said the commission of inquiry would conduct its proceedings with the highest degree of integrity and transparency, adding that it would provide a conducive environment where all voices would be heard, respected and considered in its final findings.
Justice Emudainowho noted that the members of the commission recognized the gravity of its assignment in addressing complex and deep rooted issues concerning kingship and land ownership within Ogwashi-Uku and its neighbouring communities.
According to her, the concerns that led to the setting up of the commission of inquiry touched on core identity, heritage and stability within the affected communities’ kingship and land ownership matters, which were historical and cultural as well as of economic significance.
Justice Emudainowho advised counsel to the various communities and individuals to represent their clients with decorum with regard to the sensitive nature of the issues, and strive for dialogue that advanced understanding even in the face of disagreement.
She solicited for the cooperation of the affected communities and urged them to trust the process as the Commission’s goal was not to depend divisions but to bring understanding and unity to lay the ground work for a peaceful and cooperate future.
She added that the commission had received 30 memoranda, adding that it would commence sitting on Wednesday next week and urged counsels to liaise with the Secretariat for any information.
Some counsels lauded the government for setting up the commission of inquiry to put to an end the lingering kingship and land ownership disputes in Ogwashi-Uku and its neighbouring communities.
They drew the attention of the commission to issues bothering their interest.
Other members of the Commission of Inquiry include, Mrs Ajoritsedere Awosika, Pharmacist Paul Enebeli, Professor Andrew Onokerhoraye, Mr Charles Dike, a Deputy Commissioner of Police and Barrister Moses Namo, an Assistant Director, Department of State Services with Barrister Gabriel Ikemefuna Eze-Owenz, a Director, Advisory Services, Ministry of Justice as Secretary.
