A protracted communal crisis has ravaged Ijaw communities in Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, resulting in the destruction of over 74 houses and several lives lost. The conflict, which started in Okomu, has spread to neighboring communities, including Agbede, Oweike, and Okorodudu, despite efforts by the Ijaw National Congress to intervene.
In a bid to restore peace, Ijaw traditional rulers from Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa States convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Benin City. The meeting led to the appointment of Chief Sunny Ajele to lead a resolution committee tasked with ending the violence. The monarchs urged all factions to lay down arms and engage in dialogue to promote peace and community development.
According to Chief Ajele, the crisis has lingered for over three years, with previous attempts to resolve it proving unsuccessful. The violence has resulted in significant destruction, with over 30 houses burnt in Agbede community, 18 houses destroyed in Winke community, and six houses burnt in Okorodudu. The security situation remains precarious, with most security personnel reluctant to venture into the waterside areas.
Chief Ajele attributed the escalation of the crisis to a reprisal attack by a militant leader who felt betrayed by his kinsmen. The traditional rulers had previously called on the militant leader to surrender his tools, but he refused, leading to a military invasion of his community, which resulted in the destruction of his property and the killing of one of his associates.
The resolution committee, led by Chief Ajele, aims to bring the warring factions together to live in harmony and work with security agents to restore peace to the Okomu community. The committee will engage with critical stakeholders to identify the root causes of the conflict and recommend lasting solutions. Chief Ajele also pointed to the divide-and-rule tactics employed by the immediate past administration as a factor that exacerbated the crisis.
The Ijaw people have a complex history, with various clans and subgroups spread across the Niger Delta region. They have faced numerous challenges, including environmental degradation, poverty, and conflict, which have contributed to their struggles for fairness and recognition. The Ijaw people are known for their rich cultural heritage, including their traditional attire, festivals, and ceremonies.
