By Lukman Olabiyi
Itsekiri leaders in Delta State have strongly criticized leaders of Sapele Okpe Community for what they described as misinformation and attempts to create confusion regarding territorial disputes in Niger Delta.
The disagreement revolves around the Seplat Dredging Site, which the Sapele Okpe Community has claimed to be part of their territory, despite it being historically part of Itsekiri lands.
In a statement by the Chairman and Secretary of the Abigborodo Management Committee, Misan Ukubeyinje, and Victor Atseponu, the Itsekiri leaders accused Sapele Okpe leaders of spreading false claims, undermining the peace process, and inciting potential conflict in the region.
They called on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to intervene and ensure that investigation into the issue, led by Chief Edwin Uzor, the Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, proceeds without interference.