A lingering communal conflict in the Ijaw communities of Ovia South-West Local Government Area, Edo State, has left a trail of destruction, with more than 74 houses razed and several lives lost over the past three years.
The violence, which began in Okomu, has extended to neighbouring settlements including Agbede, Oweike, and Okorodudu, defying multiple peace efforts by stakeholders and traditional authorities. Despite earlier intervention attempts by the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the situation worsened, prompting a renewed move for resolution.
To address the escalating crisis, traditional rulers from Ijaw communities across Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa States convened in Benin City, where they formed a peace committee led by Chief Sunny Ajele. The monarchs urged warring factions to embrace dialogue, emphasizing the need for lasting peace and development.
Notable royal figures in attendance included the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM William Ogoba; the Pere of Arogbo Kingdom, HRM Zacheus Egbunu; and other traditional rulers from Poromor, Olodiama, and Iduwini kingdoms.
Speaking after his appointment, Chief Ajele stated the committee’s priority is to identify the root causes of the conflict, mediate between aggrieved parties, and liaise with security agencies to restore order—especially in remote, riverine areas affected by the unrest.
He confirmed that in Agbede alone, over 30 houses were destroyed, while Winke and Okorodudu recorded 18 and six homes razed, respectively. A cycle of attacks and reprisals, sparked by the actions of a local militant leader and subsequent military intervention, has deepened distrust and displaced many residents.
The committee has vowed to pursue inclusive dialogue, rebuild broken trust, and work with relevant authorities to return calm to the embattled communities.
