By Anne Azuka
The traditional ruler of Ogwashi Uku kingdom in Delta state, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo 11 has called on the Delta State government and all relevant authorities to continue to uphold the sanctity of the judicial process over the community land disputes by allowing the courts to determine the issues before them without interference .The monarch, younger brother to the director general of World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala who made the call on Monday stated that the Kingdom cannot be intimidated, harassed, or subdued through acts of violence over land matters.
Responding to the acts of aggression, threats to life, and wanton destruction of property at Aboh Ogwashi-Uku allegedly perpetrated by certain individuals from the neighboring Ibusa community last week Thursday , 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. This was contained in a Press statement signed by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi , the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and made available to newsmen.
He noted that law enforcement authorities have commenced investigations into the incidents, stating “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”. 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 quipped :”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 .
