Benin Monarch Seeks Police Assistance To Halt Alleged Ijaw Encroachment

BENIN monarch, Oba Erediauwa, has sought the assistance of the police to curb the alleged illegal encroachment on his kingdom by Ijaw people, despite a Supreme Court judgment in his favour.

While playing host to the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 5, Mr Hashimu Salihu Argungu in his palace, Oba Erediauwa  expressed displeasure  at the events playing out in Ovia South West Local Government Area, which is being perpetrated by Gele’ gele-Ijaw people living in the riverine area.

According to the monarch, even after the apex court had ruled against their continued occupation of the area, they have stayed put and continued to foment trouble in his kingdom and even threatening to secede.

He thereafter delegated the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe to liaise with the police chief to find a lasting solution to the encroachment problem which has persisted for sometime now.

“I’m happy that a man like you has come. I have a local part of my territory at Gele’gele-Ijaw. People there are claiming the place even though there is a Supreme Court judgment in our favour. Keep your ears open to us. The Iyase will come and tell you the rest”, he said.

The royal father particularly expressed displeasure over attempts by the people to disrespect the District Head he appointed to administer the oil-rich region on his behalf.

The Oba, who expressed confidence in the new AIG, said: “From your qualifications and working experience, I am happy you are deployed to Zone 5 and I wish you success in fighting crime in the state”.

He pledged the cooperation of the traditional institution in the state with the police in their bid to succeed in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

He also praised the efforts of the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olayinka Balogun, saying: “The CP of Edo State is doing well in trying to wipe out all forms of crime, including kidnapping. He is open to public discussions and interactions as a way of finding solution to surging crime in the state”.