The traditional ruler of Ogwashi Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo 11, has called on the Delta State government and all relevant authorities to allow the courts to determine the boundary issues before them without interference.
This may not be unconnected to the land disputes between the community and others, especially the acts of aggression, threats to life and wanton destruction of property at Aboh Ogwashi-Uku allegedly perpetrated by certain individuals from the neighbouring Ibusa community last Thursday.
The monarch, a younger brother to the director-general of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, made the call on Monday, stating that the kingdom cannot be intimidated, harassed, or subdued through acts of violence over land matters.
The monarch while reacting through a press statement signed by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, the palace secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom on Monday, noted however that law enforcement authorities had commenced investigations into the incidents.
While calling on the state government to continue to uphold the sanctity of the judicial process over the matter, the traditional ruler noted that those who instigated such unlawful actions in the past have invariably been made to bear the full legal consequences of their conduct.
“We wish to state unequivocally that the Palace and the entire Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom will fully cooperate with all relevant security agencies to ensure that every individual who participated in, facilitated, or orchestrated the attack is apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the full extent of the law, ” the monarch said.
He advised those contemplating similar acts to desist, as the rule of law will take its full course without fear or favour, reiterating the kingdom’s longstanding and principled position not to engage in public commentary on matters that are sub judice.
On the the boundary between the two communities, Obi Okonjo 11 said “For the avoidance of doubt, the issues relating to the boundary between Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha south local government area and Ibusa in Oshimili north local government area are presently before the Delta State High Court in Suit No. AKU/11/2024.
“Furthermore, the issue concerning the proper name and location of Admiralty University is currently before the Federal High Court, Abuja, for judicial determination. These matters are properly within the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts, and the Palace remains committed to allowing due judicial process to run its full course.
“We therefore caution against any attempts to undermine the authority of the courts through violence, propaganda, or extra-judicial means”.
He urged members of Ogwashi-Uku community to remain calm, law-abiding, and resolute in the face of any provocations even as he assured that justice will be diligently pursued .
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