Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has officially requested the Federal Government to step in and mediate a land dispute between Edo and Delta states. His appeal was made public in a statement from the deputy governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, following a fact-finding mission to the contested areas.

Idahosa emphasized the importance of President Bola Tinubu’s intervention to ensure justice, equity, and fairness in resolving the conflict surrounding the disputed communities. “I passionately call on the President to use all necessary demarcation agencies to resolve these lingering issues,” he stated.

During his visit, which included members of the Edo State Boundary Committee, Idahosa highlighted the territorial integrity of Edo State, noting that the Jameson River functions as a natural boundary marker for the contested Ugbakele area. He called for thorough investigations by the boundary committee to guide their recommendations to the governor.

Engaging with local stakeholders and community leaders from areas such as Oben, Ikobi, and Iguelaba, Idahosa listened to grievances related to non-recognition by oil companies and issues stemming from land allocations made by the previous administration without community input.

Community representatives voiced their frustration, stating, “The previous government has done injustice to the Edo people by allocating land to investors without having interactive sessions with us.”

Earlier, Governor Monday Okpebholo had also urged federal intervention to prevent possible communal clashes amid the ongoing boundary dispute, warning against exploitation by companies and individuals during this unsettled period.