Tension is mounting in Delta State as the long-standing boundary dispute between Igbuzo (Ibusa) and Ogwashi-Uku communities resurfaces, prompting urgent calls for government intervention to avert a potential breakdown of peace.
Leaders and indigenes of Igbuzo have appealed to both the Federal Government and the Delta State Government to address what they describe as persistent encroachment on their ancestral lands by neighbouring Ogwashi-Uku.
At the heart of the dispute are conflicting claims over land ownership and jurisdiction, further complicated by concerns surrounding the status of the Admiralty University of Nigeria. The federal institution is officially designated as being located in Ibusa, and community stakeholders warn that any attempt to alter its recognized location raises serious legal and ethical implications.
The Ogwashi-Uku community, under the leadership of Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, has been linked to the ongoing disagreement. However, Igbuzo leaders insist that the matter had long been settled by a Supreme Court ruling delivered in 1986, which they say affirmed the boundary in favour of Ibusa. They lament that full compliance with the judgment remains unresolved.
His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, alongside other community stakeholders, expressed concern over what they described as continued disregard for the apex court’s decision. According to them, failure to uphold the ruling undermines the authority of the judiciary and weakens public confidence in the rule of law.
Despite the rising tension, the Igbuzo community has been commended for maintaining restraint. Leaders emphasized their commitment to peaceful and lawful approaches, urging indigenes at home and in the diaspora to remain calm, united, and law-abiding.
“We are not cowards, nor are we afraid,” a community representative stated. “But we believe strongly in due process and justice. Our grievances must be addressed through legal and constructive means.”
The community has specifically called on Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene, warning that continued inaction could escalate the situation into avoidable conflict. They also accused the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku of failing to comply with the court’s ruling, alleging a disregard for the law.
Among their key demands are the full enforcement of the 1986 Supreme Court judgment, an immediate halt to alleged encroachment, protection of the university’s legal status, and proactive measures by authorities to sustain peace in the area.
While reaffirming their desire for peaceful coexistence, Igbuzo leaders stressed that justice, respect for lawful judgments, and protection of ancestral rights must remain paramount.
Observers note that the response of government authorities in the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the dispute is resolved amicably or allowed to deteriorate into further tension
