Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has cautioned companies against exploiting the ongoing boundary dispute between Edo and Delta States.
Speaking through his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, during a fact-finding visit to the disputed areas, the governor warned against encroachment on Edo territory while the matter is still under consideration by the National Boundary Commission (NBC).
The delegation included the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5, Salman-Dogo Garba, and other top security officials. Addressing the communities, the governor urged residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding, assuring them that the issue is being handled at the highest level of national authority.
“We are here to see the disputed area and the demarcation. We appeal to the Federal Government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the NBC expedites action so this matter is resolved once and for all. The River Ethiop is a natural boundary, and we don’t want crises between Edo and Delta States. We are brothers, having once been Bendel State before Delta was created. We want peace, and we want the right thing done quickly,” he stated.
While addressing residents of Urhonigbe Community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, the governor reassured them of his administration’s commitment to protecting their interests but urged restraint.
“Please don’t take laws into your hands. As a government, we will safeguard the territorial integrity of Edo State. But we must maintain peace and harmony with our neighbours while this matter is before the NBC,” he pleaded.
The warning follows recent reports of encroachment by the Delta State Government and companies attempting to establish operations on disputed lands. Commissioner-designate and former lawmaker, Etiosa Ogbeiwi, who briefed the governor at the Urhonigbe Rubber Estate, commended the swift intervention.
