By Desmond Agbama
The South-South Coalition of Ijaw Leadership Group Ex-Agitators has publicly distanced itself from allegations made by certain Ijaw groups against His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, over land ownership issues in Gelegele, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Addressing a press conference in Benin City on June 21, 2019, the group’s leader, General Pere Ejume, described the claims that the Oba of Benin forcefully acquired land in Gelegele as false, baseless, and lacking in substance. He emphasized that the Benin Monarch remains a father figure to all residents of Edo State and possesses the traditional authority to pursue development initiatives across communities within the Benin Kingdom.
General Pere further dissociated the coalition from what he described as an unwarranted affront against the revered Benin Monarch, stressing that such actions do not represent the views of the wider Ijaw leadership and ex-agitator community.
Also speaking at the briefing, the coalition’s Vice Chairman, Engr. Charles Geoffrey, condemned the allegations, describing them as unfortunate, embarrassing, and capable of creating unnecessary tension in the peaceful riverine communities of Edo State. He urged those behind the accusations to desist from spreading falsehoods that could undermine the existing harmony in the area.
In his remarks, Mr. Richard Ajakaye-Ojukwu appealed to Oba Ewuare II to forgive those responsible for the offensive publications and reaffirmed the coalition’s loyalty and respect for the Benin throne. He noted that the Ijaw people have long coexisted peacefully within the territory and should not be seen as disrespecting the traditional institution that has accommodated them over the years.
Following the press conference, members of the coalition paid a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, where they offered an unreserved apology and reiterated their commitment to peace, unity, and mutual respect.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Chief Stanley Obamwonyi, the Esere of Benin, commended the group for its solidarity and commitment to peace. He reiterated that the Oba of Benin remains a father to all, regardless of ethnic or religious background, and remains committed to the welfare and development of every community within the kingdom.
Chief Obamwonyi further explained that ongoing and proposed development initiatives in Gelegele and surrounding communities are intended to improve the lives of residents and promote economic growth. He encouraged the Ijaw youths to work closely with the Palace and the Edo State Government in advancing the development of the area.
The Palace Chief also cautioned against allowing external interests, whether within or outside the Ijaw community, to exploit existing sentiments in ways that could threaten the peace and stability that have long prevailed in the Benin Kingdom.
Credit: Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin
