Eleme LGA Chairman Leads Peace Efforts in Renewed Ekporo–Ogu Boundary Dispute
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Jerry Williams
The Executive Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area, Chief Hon. Obarilomate Ollor, has intervened in the renewed boundary dispute between Ekporo Community in Eleme LGA and neighbouring Ogu Community in Ogu/Bolo LGA, directing an immediate suspension of all activities on the disputed land to prevent an escalation of tensions.
The intervention followed concerns raised by the Councillor representing Ekporo Ward 5 in the Eleme Legislative Assembly, Hon. Freedom Lekwa, who alleged that individuals from Ogu had encroached on Ekporo ancestral land and commenced the construction of structures without the consent or authorization of the host community.
Chief Ollor visited the disputed area, where he met with representatives of both communities and received submissions, claims, and counterclaims regarding the ownership of the land. He emphasized the need for restraint and dialogue while government authorities examine the issues surrounding the boundary.
To prevent a breakdown of law and order, the Eleme Council Chairman ordered that all activities on the disputed land be suspended pending a comprehensive review by the appropriate government agencies. He further stated that all boundary documents and ownership claims should be subjected to legal and administrative interpretation by the competent authorities responsible for resolving boundary disputes.
Chief Ollor reaffirmed his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining peace and security, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails across Eleme Local Government Area. He urged residents of both communities to remain calm, refrain from actions capable of provoking violence, and allow due process to determine the matter.
Also present during the intervention was the Executive Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, Barr. Vincent Nemieboka, alongside security agencies, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders from both Ekporo and Ogu communities. The stakeholders pledged to work together towards a peaceful and lawful resolution of the dispute.
The boundary between Ekporo Community in Eleme Local Government Area and Ogu Community in Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area has witnessed periodic disagreements over land ownership and territorial boundaries. Such disputes have occasionally heightened tensions between the neighbouring communities, prompting interventions by government officials, traditional institutions, and security agencies. Authorities have consistently advocated dialogue, adherence to legal processes, and respect for established boundary determination mechanisms to prevent violence and preserve peaceful coexistence.
