State creation: Edo won’t cede land to agitators — Oba of Benin

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has firmly declared that no portion of Edo land will be ceded to secessionist agitators pushing for new state boundaries through Edo territory.

The monarch issued the warning when he received members of the Edo State Boundary Committee, led by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, on a courtesy visit to the Benin Palace, yesterday.

During the visit, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Rowland Otaru, SAN, cited historical and legal authorities affirming the global prominence and enduring sovereignty of the Benin monarchy.

Oba Ewuare II questioned the motives behind renewed agitation for self-determination.

He noted that such campaigns gained prominence shortly after the rebellion of some suspended Enigie (Benin dukes) and lower-ranking traditional functionaries against the Benin throne.

Pledging his full support to the boundary committee, the Oba commended the calibre of personalities appointed from across the three senatorial districts and offered prayers for their success.

He, however, issued a stern caution on territorial integrity.

“You have distinguished and committed individuals in this committee. By the grace of God, we have prayed for you. Go and do the work very well.

“However, the Committee must not allow an inch of Edo land to be taken away for any reason. I do not think that should happen,” the monarch said.

Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, sought the Oba’s blessings to enable the boundary committee to effectively carry out its mandate as directed by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

He raised concerns over injustices allegedly perpetrated by some oil companies operating in the state, particularly in neglecting their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations.

He assured the Benin throne that all unlawfully ceded oil wells and resources belonging to the Edo people would be reclaimed under the guidance of the Oba, adding that the committee is committed to working closely with the Palace.

Idahosa disclosed that the committee inherited 90 per cent of its 187 pending intra- and inter-state boundary cases from previous administrations.

He noted that tensions between former Governor Godwin Obaseki and his then deputy, Philip Shaibu, contributed significantly to the backlog of unresolved disputes.

The visit underscored renewed efforts by the state government to protect Edo’s territorial integrity and address long-standing boundary conflicts in collaboration with the revered Benin monarchy.

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