Okpebholo Urges FG to Resolve Edo-Delta Boundary Dispute

 

 

 

 

 

Okpebholo Urges FG to Resolve Edo-Delta Boundary Dispute

 

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has called on the Federal Government to intervene urgently in the ongoing boundary dispute between Edo and Delta states to prevent potential communal clashes.

 

The governor, represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, made the appeal on Wednesday during a fact-finding visit to the disputed areas, accompanied by security officials and government representatives.

 

Okpebholo warned companies and individuals against taking advantage of the unsettled boundary by encroaching on Edo territory while the matter is under adjudication by the National Boundary Commission (NBC).

 

The disputed area lies between Urhonigbe community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State and Umutu community in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State.

 

Addressing residents of Urhonigbe, the governor assured them of his administration’s commitment to safeguarding their rights. He urged residents to exercise restraint, emphasizing that the matter was being handled at the highest level of national authority.

 

He said, “We are here to see firsthand the disputed boundary and the actual demarcation. We appeal to the Federal Government to direct the NBC to expedite action so that this issue can be resolved once and for all. The River Ethiope is a natural boundary. We do not want any crisis in the South-South or between Edo and Delta states. Peace and justice must prevail.”

 

Okpebholo stressed that while his administration would defend Edo’s territorial claims, it would do so with fairness and respect for due process. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure justice, preserve harmony, and protect the integrity of our people and our state,” he added.

 

Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5, Salman-Dogo Garba, also urged the communities to remain calm, describing Edo and Delta as inseparable partners despite the dispute. “Be peaceful and avoid violence. This matter is already before the NBC,” he said.