By Ogalla Daniel
The Kogi State House of Assembly, has appealed to residents of Ebira communities in Kogi State and Okpella/Ososo communities of Edo State, currently engaged in dispute over land to be calm while the issues are being dealt with.
This is just as the State Assembly has appealed for urgent intervention by relevant authorities as it moves to settle the long-standing boundary dispute.
The alarm was raised following renewed violence and lingering boundary disputes involving Ebira communities in Kogi State and Okpella/Ososo communities of Edo State.
The Member Representing Okene Town. Hon Suleiman Abdulrazak, presented in the matter of public importance on the floor of the House, which drew attention to persistent land and boundary conflicts around the Ososo–Okpella axis, particularly in Onyokoko Ward of Okene Local Government Area, which have reportedly resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
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Hon Suleiman noted that although boundary demarcations exist in law and tradition, unresolved litigation and weak enforcement have continued to fuel tension between the affected communities.
They expressed concern that communal clashes, attacks on farm settlements, and encroachment on farmlands have worsened insecurity in the area, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
According to him, recent incidents include alleged encroachment into Ogada market area, destruction of farmlands, erection of demarcation pillars without consensus, and violent confrontations that have claimed innocent lives.
He stressed that the situation, if left unchecked, could escalate into a wider communal crisis.
The House resolved that State Security Committee, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Army, immediately visit the affected communities to assess the situation and restore peace.
On his part, the Member Representing Ajaokuta, Hon Abu Jibrin, called for joint boundaries between the two communities that would involve both traditional rulers and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding as a means to further enhance peace.
He also encouraged the involvement of the Kogi State House committee on land since the state shares boundaries with others states and these same issues are in every part of the state.
The Assembly then resolved that all parties should abide by existing court judgments and legal boundaries pending final resolution of the dispute.
The motion also appealed to the State Government to provide relief materials and support for displaced persons affected by the crisis, noting that many families have lost homes, livelihoods, and access to farmlands.
The Speaker, RT. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf in his remarks, appreciated members of the 8th assembly for their efforts at seeking solution to challenges affecting their various constituencies.
And that the house issues it’s resolution urging the National Boundary Commission to adjudicate Court judgement in favour of Kogi State by mapping out boundaries between Kogi and her Edo State counterpart for lasting peace.
In his closing remarks, the Speaker emphasised the need for peace, restraint, and respect for lawful processes, stressing that communal coexistence remains vital to development and security in Kogi State.
