Elders of Oke-Oroma in the Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State have commended Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Oba of Benin for restoring the community’s independence and rightful ancestral rights.

This came after years of conflict with Amagba Adolor, separated from Oke-Oroma by the Oroma River, which served as a natural boundary between the two communities.

During a peaceful rally on Thursday in Benin, Oke-Oroma elders alongside Obagie N’Evbuosa villagers held placards, pledging loyalty and support to the governor and Oba of Benin.

They affirmed that the intervention brought relief after years of aggression, displacement, and attempts to undermine their community’s existence and long-standing ancestral boundaries.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Osahon Emokpae thanked Mr Okpebholo and Oba Ewuare II for ensuring that rightful boundaries and traditions were upheld in spite of interference.

He explained that the Oroma River extended to Oghoghobi and naturally divided Oredo LGA communities from those in Ikpoba-Okha LGA, such as Oke-Oroma and Obagie N’Evbuosa.

He condemned attempts by Amagba residents to cross into Ikpoba-Okha LGA and forcefully occupy Oke-Oroma’s ancestral lands against clearly defined natural and administrative boundaries.

A native of the community, Hannah Eghaghe, expressed deep gratitude to both leaders, stating that their actions reflected justice and human rights and restored peace for displaced families to return home.

She acknowledged divine intervention, sharing that those displaced were gradually rebuilding their lives “thanks to the leaders’ bold actions in standing for truth and justice”.

One of the elders, Osasco Osadolor, criticised the recent protests by Amagba elders, accusing them of trying to rewrite history and discredit the Oba’s final ruling on the matter.

He commended the government and palace for halting land grabbing attempts and reaffirmed Oke-Oroma’s commitment to staying alert and protecting their land and legacy.

Pa. Omozuhiomwen Aiguobatile, Odionwere of Obagie N’Evbuosa, confirmed Oroma River as always being the boundary, citing past rulings by Oba Akenzua, Erediauwa, and Oba Ewuare II.

He blamed violence on land grabbers, exploiting historical ties and geographical confusion for selfish gains.

He warned those instigating conflict to respect the peace effort initiated by the Oba and the governor in the spirit of justice and tradition.

(NAN)