BENIN-CITY: Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has warned companies and government agencies against taking advantage of the unresolved boundary dispute between Edo and Delta states, stressing that any encroachment on Edo territory will not be tolerated.
Okpebholo, represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, issued the warning during a fact-finding mission to disputed areas between Urhonigbe in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo and Umutu in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta.
He noted that reports had emerged of companies and even the Delta State Government attempting to extend operations into the contested land.
This matter is still before the National Boundary Commission (NBC) for adjudication and adjustment. Until a final determination is made, no individual, company, or government has the right to exploit or claim the land. We will protect Edo’s territorial integrity, the governor declared.
He was accompanied by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5, Salman-Dogo Garba, and other security chiefs, who assured residents of government’s readiness to maintain peace and order in the area.
Okpebholo urged the people of Urhonigbe to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that the state government was pursuing the matter at the highest national level to ensure justice and fairness.
The Edo–Delta boundary dispute has lingered for years, sparking tensions between the two states and raising concerns among affected communities over ownership, resource control, and development rights.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, residents of Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area criticized the state government for failing to intervene in the recovery of a cocoa merchant, Frank Omoruyi, who was swept away by flood.
Locals said they had to hire divers from Benue State to recover his body after two days.
Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Paul Ohonbamu, maintained that the government had already undertaken drainage desilting across the state to address flooding challenges.
