The traditional ruler of the Ogwashi-Ukuv kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo, on Friday, applauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for establishing a judicial commission to resolve long-standing boundary disputes.
The Delta State Government had on Thursday announced the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate the ongoing land disputes and security challenges within the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
As an interim measure, the government directed the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku to take direct control of all boundary and satellite communities until the commission concludes its investigation, expected within the next sixty days.
However, the monarch who welcomed the establishment of a judicial commission, said the move was seen as a significant step towards finding a lasting solution to these issues.
He said, “I welcomed the Delta State government’s decision to establish a Judicial Commission to resolve long-standing boundary disputes with neighbouring communities.
“This move is seen as a significant step towards finding a lasting solution to these issues, which have been a source of concern for the community.
“I believe in the rule of law and am committed to ensuring that the Ogwashi-Uku community assists with the commission’s work. As directed by His Excellency the governor of Delta State and mandated by the state government.
“The Obi will take direct control of the affected satellite communities for the next 60 days, with the assistance of law enforcement agencies to ensure there is no breach of peace.
“The establishment of the Judicial Commission is a positive development. The Obi’s leadership and commitment to resolving these internal and external disputes will undoubtedly bring clarity and fairness to the issues at hand.”
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The monarch stressed that the decision would pave the way for a more harmonious relationship between Ogwashi-Uku and its neighbouring communities and within the kingdom.
Following the incessant land deputies, the government banned the sales of land in Ogwashi-Uku and its neighbouring communities, particularly in disputed boundary areas, until further notice.
The state Deputy Governor, Mr Monday Onyeme, gave the directive in July at a meeting to resolve Ogwashi-Uku kingship, chieftaincy, and land disputes with neighbouring communities at the Government House Asaba.
Meanwhile, in September, a group led by one Mr Chukwuma Nwaka accused the monarch of orchestrating efforts to seize ancestral lands belonging to Otulu.
Nwaka, in a briefing, called on the governor and state security agencies to intervene and peacefully put the matter to rest.
