By Ochuko Akuopha

ASABA – PALACE of HRM Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State, has dismissed allegation of land grabbing leveled against the monarch by protesting indigenes of Ubulu-Okiti community, saying that the traditional ruler does not engage in illegal activities.

Ubulu Okiti youths who had embarked on a peaceful protest at Delta State Government House, Asaba, had also accused the monarch of arresting indigenes of the community and taking them to Zone 5, Police Zonal Headquarters in Benin City, Edo State.

But the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, in a statement, described the allegations outlined in the protest as “incorrect, false, maliciously wrong and a deliberate attempt to smear the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku who is law abiding and strict adherent to the rule of law.”

The statement noted that on 16 December 2024, police and beneficiaries of a court judgement were carrying out work on the land pursuant to the judgment of court “which had already issued a warrant of possession and certificate of possession with the assistance of police officers because of the insecurity in the area.

“These individuals were working in the area alongside police officers from the Inspector General of Police and Zone 5 Police Command, Benin, who were deployed to assist with security on land with a Writ of and Warrant of Possession.

“The land in question has had a customary certificate of occupancy from the Bendel State Government
and a certificate of occupancy from the Delta State government so there can be absolutely no false assertion or claim as to the ownership of the land in question or the location of the land.”

The statement alleged that “While working on the land in question which was the subject of a court judgement,” the individuals involved were attacked by a group.

“These perpetrators also damaged equipment worth tens of millions of Naira and endangered the lives of lawful officers and workmen on site. Such actions are unequivocally illegal and constitute a gross violation of the rule of law.

“If the perpetrators had any grievances regarding the lawful enforcement of the court judgment, they should have followed proper legal channels and reported their concerns to the police instead of resorting to self-help, which has no place in a civilized society.

“The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku is a staunch believer in the rule of law and is committed to ensuring that all actions taken regarding land matters are legal and just.

“He does not engage in land grabbing or any other illegal activities. Following this incident, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku promptly reported the matter to the appropriate authorities.

“Fortunately, the police officers themselves were witnesses to all that happened as they were also victims of this brutal attack.”

The statement added: “If the police have refused to grant them bail because of the severity of the offenses they
committed, the persons involved should address their concerns to the courts.”

The statement said Obi of Ogwashi-Uku remained committed to upholding justice and ensuring that anyone who acts unlawfully or violates court orders is held accountable.

The statement advised the public “to disregard misleading narratives and await the outcome of the ongoing investigations by law enforcement agencies, who are determined to leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

“The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku has welcomed the Commission of Inquiry and has responded to all claims brought before the commission.

“We join hands to await results from the Commission of Inquiry which would definitely show that the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku is law abiding and strictly follows the rule of law. Court judgements must be respected and nobody should take the laws into their hands.”