By Joy Salami
The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Directorate of the Kogi State Ministry of Justice, has waded into the age-long land dispute between the Ogodo and Ikere clans in Ajaokuta.
The intervention aims to prevent the issue from escalating into a prolonged legal
Speaking during a field visit to the disputed area, the Director of ADR, Alhassan Sanni, emphasised the importance of resolving the matter amicably. He stated that the ministry’s role is to provide a platform for negotiation, conciliation, and mediation before the case reaches arbitration or litigation.
We are here to gain first hand knowledge of the area in dispute and to guide both parties toward a peaceful resolution. The aim is to create an understanding that will be binding for generations to come, he said.
He further explained that after the site visit, both parties would present their cases in full detail at the ADR office, where facts would be examined, and recommendations made. “At the end of the day, they will make the final decision. It is only when they fail to reach an agreement that arbitration will be considered,” he added.
Representatives from both clans expressed their perspectives on the dispute. Prince Ahmed Bello Ahmed of the Ikere clan stated that there was no ongoing land conflict, as the issue had been resolved by their forefathers long ago. He asserted that the Ogori River serves as the natural boundary between the two clans, a decision he claims has been respected for years.
“We have always lived in peace. The boundary issue was settled long ago, and there is no fresh dispute”, he said.
However, the Ogodo clan, represented by Alhaji Alhassan Ibu, disagreed. He claimed that external individuals, whose affiliations to either clan remained unclear, have started encroaching on Ogodo land, creating new tensions.
“Our great-grandfathers once had a dispute with the Ikere clan, but it was resolved through court verdicts, which established the Ogori River as the natural boundary. The agreement was that any resources from the river could be shared by both clans, with mutual respect. However, unknown individuals have now started encroaching on Ogodo land, which is why we approached the ADR Directorate instead of resorting to violence,” he explained.
While neither clan directly blames the other for the current situation, the issue of third-party encroachment remains a key concern in the mediation process.
Director Alhassan Obansa Sanni used the opportunity to enlighten the public on the benefits of ADR, highlighting its efficiency compared to traditional litigation.
He disclosed that ADR provides an alternative platform for people to settle disputes without going through the tedious and expensive court process. It is quicker, less confrontational, and allows both parties to have a say in the outcome.
He encouraged residents of Kogi State to take advantage of the ADR services at the Ministry of Justice, assuring them of a fair and unbiased approach to conflict resolution.
The ADR Directorate will now host both parties at its office, where they will present their cases in detail. Officials will assess the facts, weigh the arguments, and propose recommendations. Ultimately, the final decision will rest with the disputing clans.
“It is only when they fail to reach an agreement that arbitration will come into play, where a final decision will be imposed. However, we do not pray it gets to that level,” Sanni said.
As the mediation process continues, both clans have expressed hope that the issue will be resolved peacefully.
