Delta Govt Ends Okpare-Olomu Leadership Disputes

The Delta State Government has intervened to resolve a long-standing crisis in the Okpare-Olomu community, in Ughelli South Local Government Area, caused by leadership disagreements and land sale controversies.

The dispute, which began in 2024, reached a peak during the community’s annual conference, when clashes broke out between the President General, Mr. Okiemute Utoka, and some community elders. Tensions were further inflamed when the conference coincided with the burial of a prominent figure. Despite calls from local government officials to postpone the event for security reasons, the President General insisted on proceeding, leading to the deployment of soldiers and escalating unrest.

In an effort to de-escalate the situation, Dr. Edwin Uzor, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, led a peace meeting at the Delta State Government Annex. Dr. Uzor was joined by key government officials, including Executive Assistants Chief Benson Okorodudu and Dr. Duncan Egwere.

During the meeting, Dr. Uzor underscored the state government’s commitment to peace, stating that the welfare and safety of the people were top priorities. “We have zero tolerance for crises that disrupt harmony and progress in our communities,” he said.

A major source of the conflict was allegations of unauthorized land sales by individuals without the approval of community leaders. Dr. Uzor clarified that land ownership in Okpare-Olomu is held by families, quarters, or individuals, not the entire community. He called for greater transparency in future land transactions, stating that all sales must involve the rightful landowners and authorized community leaders, including the Otota (spokesperson) and the President General.

The meeting also addressed attempts to alter the community’s traditional leadership structure. Dr. Uzor reminded the President General that the position of Otota is a lifetime appointment, subject only to removal for misconduct or incapacity, and that attempts to amend the community’s constitution without consultation would not be tolerated.

Efforts to resolve tensions between the President General and the Otota were also discussed. Dr. Uzor urged both leaders to work collaboratively, with consultations from the Okpako Orere, the oldest male in the community who holds traditional oversight. The community’s Vice Chairman expressed hope that the government’s intervention would foster unity and pave the way for improved leadership communication.

Dr. Uzor also warned against using external forces, such as soldiers, to resolve internal disputes, stressing that such actions only serve to escalate tensions within the community.

The Delta State Government’s intervention has been widely commended for its efforts to address both the immediate crisis and the underlying issues that have caused friction in the community. Dr. Uzor also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting peace and ensuring that all communities in Delta State can live in harmony and progress.