Okpebholo pushes fast-track plan to restore disputed land

The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to returning disputed land to indigenes of Oke Oroma Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area once the ongoing layout process is completed.

The Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Vincent Uwadia, gave the assurance during an inspection visit to the area, carried out in line with directives from Governor Monday Okpebholo to speed up the process.

Uwadia expressed satisfaction with the progress of work being handled by state surveyors, noting that the exercise was moving at a steady pace. He emphasized the importance of frequent monitoring to ensure timely completion, adding that the government remains committed to handing the land back to rightful owners as soon as the layout is finalized.

“We are impressed with the work on ground. Regular inspections will help us ensure that, within a short time, the land is returned to the people,” he said.

Reacting, the community leader, Pa Gaius Emokpae, commended the government’s efforts to restore peace and resolve the long-standing dispute. Represented by community officials, he urged the government to follow through on its promise to return the ancestral land.

He also praised the governor for recent distribution of equipment and tractors to local government areas, noting that the community would engage the Ikpoba-Okha council chairman to help accelerate the layout process.

This marks the third inspection visit by Uwadia since assuming office, a move the community described as encouraging and a sign of the governor’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises.

The inspection team also included the Commissioner for Security, Festus Ebea, and the Chief Security Officer to the governor.

Earlier in January, the state government began issuing allocation letters to eligible beneficiaries for about 2,950 plots in the Oke Oroma area, bringing closure to a prolonged land dispute involving over 1,500 residents affected by demolitions under the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.