The Delta Commission of Inquiry into land and kingship disputes in Ogwashi Uku and its neighbouring communities has concluded its sitting.

The commission considered more than 30 petitions from members of the public.

Its chairman, Ejiro Emudianowho, announced that members would visit relevant areas for on-the-spot assessment and further information gathering.

She said the commission’s itinerary for the visits would be communicated to the public while those willing to attend would be allowed to do so.

Ms Emudianowho urged the communities to remain peaceful and maintained the calm they exhibited throughout the commission’s sitting. She also reminded the counsel to ensure that their clients remain peaceful and avoid any act that could be a breach of the law.

On Friday, the commission entertained several petitions, including one on the alleged illegal seizure of land at Azagba-Ogwashi by Ifechukwude Okonjo, its traditional ruler.

The representative of Azagba-Ogwashi could, however, not produce any document to support claims of land sales by the Okonjo.

During cross-examination, the witness admitted that the land in question was part of the 500 hectares legally awarded to the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom by a court judgment.

Chike Onyemenam, representing the traditional ruler, argued that the late Obi of Ogwashi-Uku had designated the area for a mega city. He submitted evidence, including court judgments and deeds of conveyance, to prove the case.

The commission also entertained a petition alleging that the Obi of Ogwashi Uku kidnapped a resident, Ekene Ugbah. However, a recorded audio conversation played to substantiate the claim revealed no evidence of wrongdoing against the king.

The petition was later dispelled by presenting police investigation reports identifying Ekene Ugbah as a suspect in the murder of a suspect Chukwunweike Alao.

The Obi’s lawyer emphasised the lack of evidence in all allegations against the king, describing them as part of a coordinated campaign to smear his reputation.

(NAN)