From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced a restitution window for cultists and those in possession of illegal arms in the state, offering them amnesty if they surrendered voluntarily.
The governor made the announcement during a meeting with leaders from Obagie, Oke-Oroma and Amagba communities to address land disputes in Benin.
He reaffirmed plans to develop a new city in the area, revealing that a technical committee would oversee the amnesty and rehabilitation programme.
He said the initiative would include skills training and empowerment to help reintegrate youths and curb violent crimes like cultism and kidnapping across the state.
He assured the leaders of sustained government support and collaboration to restore peace, especially as urban development begins in their communities.
He promised that all aggrieved communities, including Obagie, Oke-Oroma and Amagba, would soon experience renewed peace and better relations with the state government.
He also pledged to listen to victims of past demolitions and advised them to approach the land resolution committee with relevant documents for review.
He emphasised that during the LOT ‘A’ city development, traditional sites would be protected and that LOT ‘B’ residents should prepare to present documents.
The governor further assured that land regularisation would follow in other LOTs, granting formal recognition to valid property owners.
He urged citizens to survey and register their lands with the Edo Geographical Information System (Edo GIS) to secure official land titles.
Community representatives pledged support for the Governor’s plans, particularly on LOT ‘A’ development and ongoing efforts to strengthen local security systems.
Pa. Michael Omoruyi, Pa Abel Emokpae and Ebo Amagba, who represented Obagie, Oke-Oroma and Amagba communities, respectively, spoke at the meeting.
They recalled past clashes under the former administration and expressed regret over loss of lives and property during those government-led engagements.
The communities commended Okpebholo for initiating dialogue and setting up the Land Resolution Committee, which according to them, is the first since the acquisition of their land in 2017.
Governor Okpebholo recently inaugurated the committee, chaired by Dr. Tony Ikpasaja with Dr. Abdulwasiu Oyakhire as secretary. Other members are the State Surveyor-General, Permanent Secretary for Physical Planning, representative of the Ministry of Justice and Dr. Felix Iyalomhen.