Tension Mounts Between Edo And Delta Communities, Reps Demand Swift Peace Talks

The House of Representatives has urged the governments of Edo and Delta States to urgently resolve their lingering boundary dispute through dialogue and mutual understanding. The legislative call comes amid growing tension between communities residing along the borderlines of the two states.

According to Ireporter Online, the House also directed its Committees on Special Duties and National Security and Intelligence to investigate allegations of attacks on certain Edo communities by suspected thugs. Lawmakers further instructed security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, and National Intelligence Agency (NIA), to take swift measures to restore calm and safeguard lives and property in the affected areas.

Presenting a motion of urgent public importance, Hon. Billy Osawaru (APC, Edo) described the long-standing peace enjoyed by communities such as Iguelgba, Oben, Ikobi, and Obazogbe-N’ugu in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, which share boundaries with Mosogar in Delta State. He noted that the boundary demarcation between both states had been clearly defined since 1991, allowing residents to coexist peacefully for decades.

However, Osawaru lamented that recent hostilities allegedly instigated by individuals from Mosogar and parts of Delta State had sparked panic and unrest in the Edo communities. He expressed deep concern over the reported invasion and attacks by suspected hoodlums, which he claimed were being carried out under the influence of certain prominent figures in Delta State.

The lawmaker warned that if prompt action is not taken to de-escalate the situation, the conflict could degenerate into a major interstate crisis, endangering national peace and stability.