Itsekiris in Delta vow to resist alleged plot by Ondo govt to annex their communities

Leaders of Itsekiri communities in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State have voiced their opposition to what they allege is a plot by the Ondo State Government to annex their ancestral lands into Ilaje Local Government Area within Ondo State. This was disclosed during a peaceful protest held in their respective communities to prevent potential law and order issues. The seven communities affected are Ebokiti, Ekekporo, Ugbege, Eketie, Ototo, Ewoleba, and Aja-Ebighan.

At the protest, the community leaders unfurled placards featuring messages like "Warri North LGA Wants Your Intervention", "This is Imperialism", and "We Don’t Want Local Council Area in Ondo State". Notable leaders present included Dr. Emma Ikomi of Ugbege, Tosan Odume of Ebokiti, and Oma Madamedon of Eke.

The Itsekiri community leaders appealed to Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Warri North LGA Chairman, Hon. Festus Ashima, and relevant security agencies to safeguard their ancestral lands. They emphasized that this issue constitutes a significant security threat to their communities and their long-standing harmonious coexistence as Itsekiri people.

According to the Itsekiri leaders, Ondo State has repeatedly attempted over the years to annex these seven Itsekiri communities. They claim that this strategy aims to facilitate the creation of additional Local Council Areas (LCAs) within Ondo State. The community assertions come as a response to what they perceive as modern imperialism by the Ondo government. They reiterate their firm stance, stating, "Itsekiri communities will not be the prey."