In a significant step towards lasting peace, Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities on Tuesday signed a historic peace accord aimed at ending their decades-long land boundary conflict that began in 1996.
The accord was reached during a high-level peace meeting held at Park Royale Hotel, NPA Housing Estate, Airport Road, Warri. The initiative was spearheaded by the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun (Hon.) Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode JP FCIA, and his Warri South-West counterpart, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni.
The milestone follows an appeal made by the two council chairmen to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori JP, after the governor’s pronouncement to acquire the disputed land. With the governor’s blessing, both local government leaders opted for a grassroots-driven approach to bring lasting resolution to the protracted crisis.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders from both communities and culminated in the adoption of eight major resolutions designed to promote peace, social cohesion, and conflict resolution. These include:
- Permanent Cessation of Hostilities – A mutual agreement to end all forms of violence and maintain peaceful coexistence.
- Enhanced Social Interaction – Members of both communities are now free to visit and participate in each other’s social and cultural events.
- Responsible Communication – Parties agreed to curb the spread of harmful rumours and misinformation. Offenders will face legal consequences.
- Ban on Illegal Arms – Youths in possession of firearms without security clearance will be arrested and prosecuted.
- Suspension of Legal Battles – All pending court cases relating to the disputed land will be suspended, with plans to withdraw them following final settlement.
- Land Dispute Resolution – Both sides will collaborate on resolving land matters, particularly those affected by the state’s acquisition plans.
- Continuous Stakeholder Engagement – Regular dialogue involving council leaders and community stakeholders will continue until a permanent solution is established.
- Rotational Peace Talks – Future peace meetings will rotate between Ogbe-Ijoh, Aladja, and Otor-Udu communities.
The peace accord was formally signed by prominent leaders and representatives from both communities, including:
- Dr. Richard Lafua, President, Aladja Community Council
- Chief Samuel Eyoroengogha, Chairman, Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom Governing Council
- Emmanuel Emetejitaye, Aladja Youth Leader
- Amb. Victor E. Akemotubo, President, Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom Youth Council
- Olorogun (Hon.) Vincent O. Oyibode, Executive Chairman, Udu LGA
- Hon. Sylvester Oromoni, Executive Chairman, Warri South-West LGA
The event has rekindled hopes of peace and prosperity in both communities. Many stakeholders expressed optimism that the peace accord will pave the way for unity, security, and socio-economic development across Udu and Warri South-West LGAs and Delta State at large.
The signing marks a turning point in a conflict that has lasted nearly three decades, claiming lives, stalling development, and leaving deep scars on both communities. Tuesday’s agreement is now being seen as a bold and hopeful step toward reconciliation, healing, and progress.
