Three killed in renewed land dispute between Delta communities

At least three people have been killed and several others injured following renewed violence over a long-standing land dispute between the Edjekota Community of Ogor Kingdom in Ughelli North and the Otor-Ewu Community in Ughelli South, Delta State.

The conflict escalated on Monday, with tensions rising as both communities braced for further confrontation.

The dispute over land ownership has been ongoing for some time and is currently the subject of legal proceedings at the Otu-Jeremi High Court. It is understood that the case is due to be heard again on April 10.

According to sources, two people from Edjekota were killed, while a third victim, from Ewu, was shot and killed while passing through Edjekota on his way home.

“This land issue is already in court, but on Monday, members of the other community, accompanied by police officers, went to arrest our people who were working on the land. Those who escaped came back to inform us.”” a community source explained.

“Some of those arrested, including Izaga, Michael Itedjere, and Pa Othu and his wife, were later released due to their age. Our youths then searched the bush for the missing persons and found two of our people who had been apprehended, handing them over to the Ughelli Police.”

The situation worsened when a joint team of police officers, hunters, and security personnel from Ewu entered Edjekota, reportedly firing shots indiscriminately. One of the security personnel, identified as Henry, shot and killed Martins Ekerhare, who was sitting in front of a building.

Another victim, Victor Akpojaro, was shot and killed while riding his motorcycle home from the farm. Several others, including Karo Jerry, sustained injuries.

The bodies of the deceased were taken to the Ughelli Police Area Command, where authorities instructed that they be moved to the mortuary. Pa Othu, who witnessed the events on the farm, has given a statement to the police.

A community spokesperson warned that if the violence continues, they may have no choice but to block the road leading to Ewu to prevent further bloodshed.

The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, said he would provide further details once he has more information about the incident.

Meanwhile, the chairmen of Ughelli South and Ughelli North, Dr. Lucky Avweromre and Olorogun Jaro Egbo, visited the victims in hospital. They have since ordered security forces to take immediate action to restore peace in the affected areas.