…as Shaibu meets with Christ Embassy, Obe, Ogheghe representatives, Oke-Ewuare shuns parley again
As part of efforts to amicably resolve the lingering land dispute between the Christ Embassy and three neighbouring communities, Edo State Government Tuesday met with representatives of parties to the dispute.
Representatives of Christ Embassy, Obe Community and Ogheghe Community, except for Oke-Ewuare – all in lkpoba-Okha Local Government Area – were present at the peace parley, held at the Government House, Benin City.
Speaking at the meeting called at the instance of the State Government for peaceful resolution of the land dispute, State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu noted that nobody is above the law of the land.
According to him: “If you have any grievances, you need to channel them to the appropriate authority”.
“Oke-Ewuare Community is poised to take laws into their hands by boycotting the meeting called at the instance of the State Government on two occasions now”.
“Government will take its decision on the said land dispute if they continue with this attitude of shunning peace meetings. However, they will still be given another opportunity to avail themselves for peaceful resolution before any action will be taken”.
“Government will take its time to listen to all the parties involved in the dispute, before taking necessary action”.
“We want progress and development. Whoever is against the development of Edo State will have to exit the State for us. The poverty we are determined to eradicate will only be possible with people who are ready to invest in the State, generate employment and create wealth”.
“Wealth can not be created by destroying public properties or in an atmosphere of lawlessness”.
“I appeal to various representatives of the communities who have been taking their time to attend this meeting not to be tired, as the journey of any peaceful resolution is always very tedious”.
“I know it has gotten to a level where Government needs to start using its power to enforce law and order by making an arrest, but we don’t want to do that at this point”.
We’re giving them the last opportunity to report to the next meeting fixed for tomorrow, Wednesday, 12th April 2023 by noon or face the government’s impending action”, Shaibu added.
The Deputy Governor, however, directed the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, to send a letter to the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, to ensure the representatives of the Oke-Ewuare Community are present at the next scheduled meeting.