The Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR) has thanked Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, for their prompt intervention in the alleged illegal boundary adjustment between the Issele-Azagba and Okpanam communities in Delta North Senatorial District.
In a statement signed by the CDHR National President, Dr. Kehinde Taiga, and released on Thursday in Warri, the organization expressed appreciation to the state government for swiftly addressing the issue.
Dr. Taiga alleged that the Chairmen of Oshimili North and Aniocha North Local Government Councils, Hon. Emmanuel C. Bazim and Hon. Innocent Esewezie, respectively, in collaboration with the offices of the Surveyor-General and the Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, were involved in the controversial boundary adjustment.
He commended Governor Oborevwori, who was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, for condemning the alleged action and declaring it illegal, describing the government’s response as timely and in the interest of justice and peace.
According to Comrade Taiga, the deputy governor correctly emphasized that only constitutionally recognized bodies — including the National Boundary Commission, the State Boundary Committee, and the State Governor — have the legal authority to make any boundary adjustments.
He quoted Sir Monday Onyeme as stating that neither the local government chairmen, the Office of the Surveyor-General, nor any other individual or agency involved in the alleged exercise has the constitutional power to carry out such an action.
He added that the deputy governor urged the affected communities to stay calm and maintain peace, noting that the issue is already before a competent court for proper resolution.
He noted that Sir Onyeme appealed to all parties involved to allow the judiciary to handle the matter and deliver a fair judgment based on facts and the law, rather than resorting to self-help or taking the law into their own hands.
Dr. Taiga, in support of the deputy governor’s position, said, “The CDHR fully backs this call for peace and a lawful resolution. We strongly caution land grabbers and their accomplices to stop these illegal activities immediately. Such actions could trigger communal conflicts, lead to loss of lives and property, and disrupt the peaceful coexistence among communities in Delta State.”
He further emphasized that land grabbing is a criminal offense and called on the Delta State Government to take firm action against anyone or group found engaging in such unlawful practices.
He added, “The CDHR urges security agencies, traditional rulers, and all relevant stakeholders to join hands with the government to curb this dangerous trend and ensure that justice, peace, and fairness prevail in our communities.”
The CDHR also reaffirmed its confidence in the Delta State Government, commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, for their commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all communities across the state.
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