Delta govt cautions land grabbers over security breach in Aniocha

Delta Government on Friday warned that it would not take for granted any matter that would affect the security of lives and property in the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, gave the warning, while addressing protesters from the Ubulu-Okiti community in Aniocha South Local Government at Government House, Asaba.

The protesters, who were in their numbers, and carried placards with various inscriptions, were on a peaceful protest over the activities of land grabbers in their communities.

Emu commended the protesters for their peaceful disposition, assuring that the government would look into the matter comprehensively immediately the Commission of Enquiry’s report was presented.

“We have listened to your complaints, and the governor, has set up a Commission of Enquiry to look into your allegations that have been brewing with everything pointing towards the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Ifechukwude Okonjo.

“The security council has since invited him; thereafter, he was asked to stay away from from land matters until the Commission of Enquiry concludes its assignment in January.

“This legitimacy claims will be sorted out by the panel of inquiry headed by a serving judge of the state. The Committee is also made up of very reputable and responsible people.

“They are not people that can be bought over. So, I appeal to you to remain patient for another about two months and everything shall be over.

“After the Commission submits its result, the government will take a stern position on this matter because any matter that can affect the security of this state cannot be taken for granted.

“Part of our MORE Agenda is to enhance peace and security; so, we cannot fold our hands and see this kind of thing happen; that is why we are particularly happy with the way you have come.”

Earlier, the Youth President of Ubulu-Okiti community, Ifechukwude Nwabuebo, alleged that the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukude Okonjo and his brother, Prince Onyema had sold other family land in their community.

“If we protest, he will use thugs to chase us away from our land and our parents are no longer going to farm.

“The Obi came to Ubulu-Okiti, Ubulu-Uku and Aniagbala around 1a.m, broke into our homes, beat up our wives and carried away our fathers to Zone 5 and they have not been grant bail in the last seven days.

“We have come to appeal to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene in the matter.

“We are not under Ogwashi-Uku clan; Ubulu-Uku, Ubulu-Unor, Ubulu-Okiti and Aniagbala are not in the same clan with Ogwashi-Uku.

Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, Ogwashi-Uku Palace Secretary, described the protest as a charade, and propaganda to derail legal processes and sabotage police investigation.

According to Emordi, there is need for all parties to respect the rule of law and avoid taking laws into their hands.

“The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku remains committed to upholding justice and to ensure anyone who acts unlawfully or violates court orders is held accountable.

“The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku has welcomed the Commission of Inquiry and has responded to all claims brought before the commission.

“We join hands to await results from the Commission of Inquiry, which will definitely show that the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku is law-abiding and strictly follows the rule of law.

“Court judgment must be respected and nobody should take the laws into their hands,” he said.