Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has cautioned companies operating in the Edo and Delta states against fuelling boundary disputes between both states.
Governor Okpebholo, who called on the federal government to intervene, said companies were exploiting lingering boundary disputes for their benefit.
The Edo governor warned the companies to desist from encroaching on Edo territory, saying the matter was at the National Boundary Commission (NBC) for adjudication and adjustment.
Okpebholo, who was represented by his Deputy, Dennis Idahosa, gave the warning during a fact-finding visit to the disputed areas.
He was accompanied on the visit by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 5, Salman-Dogo Garba, and other top security officials.
Okpebholo urged the affected communities to remain peaceful and law-abiding, adding that the dispute was being handled at the highest level of national authority.
His visit followed recent reports of encroachment on Edo territory by the Delta State Government and companies attempting to establish operations on the disputed lands.
“We are here at the boundary to see the disputed area and the actual demarcation. We are appealing to the Federal Government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the NBC steps in and expedites action so that this dispute is resolved once and for all.
“This River Ethiope is a natural boundary. We don’t want a crisis in the South-South or between Edo and Delta States. We are brothers, having once been the Bendel State before Delta was created. We want peace, and we want the right thing done quickly.
At Urhonigbe Community, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Governor Okpebholo said his administration remained committed to safeguarding their interests and called for restraint.
“Please don’t take the law into your hands. As a government, we will protect the territorial integrity of Edo State. But we must maintain peace and harmony with our neighbors while this matter is before the NBC.
“We want to appeal, and equally send a strong warning, to companies in Delta State that are trying to encroach on our land. We don’t want any invasion pending the NBC resolution. All activities from these companies must stop immediately,” he warned.
The disputed territory lies between Urhonigbe Community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, and Umutu Community in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State.
Governor Okpebholo emphasised that while his administration was committed to defending Edo territorial claims, it would do so with fairness, peace, and respect for due process.
“Our ultimate goal is to ensure justice, preserve harmony, and protect the integrity of our people and our State,” he affirmed.
Commissioner-designate and former lawmaker, Etiosa Ogbeiwi, said the Delta Government brought equipment to occupy Edo land instead of waiting for the resolution of the NBC.
“The boundary between Edo and Delta is clearly demarcated by the River Ethiop, but they crossed into Edo territory to establish farm settlements. Edo State has all the documentary evidence proving this land belongs to us.
“During the reigns of Oba Akenzua I and II, homage and rent were paid to the state and the Oba of Benin. We do not want to take the law into our hands, which is why we called on the governor. We are glad the Deputy Governor and the AIG are here to see things for themselves,” Ogbeiwi said.
