Eben Enasco
The Obagie N” Evbousa Community in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State has denied any involvement in the alleged attack on the Amagba community, sparking widespread controversy and tension in the locality.
This denial comes amidst growing concerns about a recent broadcast on local television in the state capital where some leaders from the amagba community alleged that thugs from Obagie N’ Evbousa Community launched the attack killing one person.
Seen in the video making the rounds were Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen, the Odionwere of Amagba Community and the youth Chairman, Peter Owen Erhinmwinorose laying claims to be the owner of Oke Oroma also known as Ago-Emokpae where they said the incident occurred highlighted the lingering differences between the waring communities.
In the said footage, they were heard accusing the neighboring community of militarizing the Oke Oroma community calling on the Inspector General of Police to Intervene.
But in contrasting response on the development, the youth chairman Uyi Iguebor debunked the claims that Obagie N” Evbousa, haboured the alleged thugs that launched the attack.
Igiebor who spoke on a telephone conversation with our Correspondent said Obagie N’ Evbousa is surprised that they were mentioned in an incident they know nothing about.
He hinted that the Amagba Community should face the consequences of their series of attacks on buildings belonging to the residents of Oke-oroma community and live Obagie N’ Evbousa out of their clashes with various neighbouring communities, adding,”this is not the first time Amagba is accusing Obagie N’ Evbousa of such. They should face their problems with Oke Oroma and live us out. We have no hand in it”.
He revealed that, some time ago, they witnessed how the Amagba Community invaded the neighbouring Oke Oroma community where they reportedly brought down buildings, set ablaze property and resell the lands where those buildings were erected to new buyers.
Speaking further, Uyi Igiebor said it is crucial for communities to work together, engaging in constructive dialogue and seeking peaceful solutions to address their differences not accusing them with cheap blackmail to earn public sympathy.
While Obagie has denied any involvement in the recent attack, the community remains skeptical about the reoccurring incidents that have raised concerns about the safety and security of residents in the Obagie N’ Evbousa axis, which for many highlights the need for transparency and accountability in resolving communal conflicts.
The longstanding boundary conflict between Obagie and Amagba communities presents a multifaceted challenge, characterized by diverse viewpoints and competing narratives.
Despite the presence of a natural watercourse, which could have provided a clear demarcation, authorities have failed to address this critical issue.
This inaction has allowed communal tensions to escalate, spreading far-reaching consequences across affected communities.
By acknowledging the complexities and addressing the root causes, stakeholders can work towards a peaceful resolution, mitigating the devastating consequences of this protracted conflict.
