OGWASHI-UKU/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has assured the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and its neighboring communities that his administration will promptly study and release a White Paper on the findings of the Commission of Inquiry into the lingering kingship and land ownership disputes in the area.
Receiving the Commission’s report on Tuesday, Oborevwori emphasized that the document would provide the government with critical insights into the root causes of the crisis and serve as a roadmap toward sustainable peace and security in Ogwashi-Uku and the entire state.
“The setting up of this Commission of Inquiry in October last year became necessary to ascertain the root causes of the seemingly intractable land disputes and violence, which have led to loss of lives and destruction of property. I assure the people of Ogwashi-Uku and its environs that the State Government will commence the study of this report immediately, and a White Paper will be issued as soon as possible,” the governor said.
He urged feuding communities, including Ibusa, Otulu, Ubulu-Okiti, Okpanam, Olodu, Ewulu, Azagba-Ogwashi, Aboh-Ogwashi, and Olloh-Ogwashi, to embrace peace and harmonious coexistence, reiterating that “the Delta of our dreams has no room for bitterness and bigotry.”
Presenting the report, Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Justice Ejiro Emudainohwo, stated that after a thorough review of historical records, customary practices, and evidence from key stakeholders, the committee had formulated recommendations to establish a structured and equitable framework for governance and land administration in Ogwashi-Uku.
Key recommendations include the codification of succession procedures to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku throne, formal documentation of traditional chieftaincy titles, and recognition of self-determination rights for communities seeking autonomy. The report also proposed defining the hierarchy and functions of traditional chieftaincy titles to promote accountability and order.
Justice Emudainohwo expressed confidence that implementing these recommendations would not only restore peace in Ogwashi-Uku but also serve as a model for conflict resolution in other traditional communities facing similar disputes.
