Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has called for peace and restraint among groups in the Ogwashi-Uku communities of Aniocha North Local Government Area, following renewed tensions over land ownership and sales.
The governor made the appeal on Thursday after a delegation of Ogwashi-Uku indigenes, led by Patrick Osamor, President General of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Union (ODU), held a peaceful protest at the Government House in Asaba, urging the state government to intervene in the ongoing land disputes.
Representing the governor, Senior Political Adviser Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo praised the protesters for maintaining order and discipline during the demonstration, noting that their peaceful conduct aligns with the administration’s **Enhanced Peace and Security policy.
Governor Oborevwori reassured the community, stating: I commend you for conducting yourselves peacefully. Be assured that your concerns will be addressed promptly and resolved amicably.
The governor underscored that peace and security remain top priorities for his administration, assuring that the government would take all necessary measures to restore harmony and prevent any further breakdown of law and order in the community.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Patrick Osamor alleged that some individuals, including the community’s traditional ruler, had engaged in illegal land transactions that violate customary land administration practices.
“Certain people are selling lands without the approval of the Diokpa and village chiefs. They have also involved some youths in a cartel to carry out illicit land deals,” Osamor stated.
He called on the state government to take decisive action to stop those exploiting communal lands for personal gain, emphasizing that the community’s traditional and legal land management systems must be respected.
Governor Oborevwori reiterated that the Delta State Government would not tolerate actions that threaten community peace, stressing that disputes should be addressed through lawful and conciliatory channels rather than confrontation.
The governor’s appeal for calm is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots peacebuilding and uphold justice across Delta State, in line with his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
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