CDHR Warns Of Looming Intra Communal Clash Over Alleged Unconstitutional Boundary Adjustment In Delta

Tension seems to be rising in Delta State as residents of Issele-Azagba and Okpanam fear renewed clashes following an alleged illegal boundary adjustment between the two communities.

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has strongly condemned the move, warning that it could spark communal unrest and leave families displaced.

In a statement issued in Warri, Comr. Dr. Kehinde P. Taiga, National President, Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR)said that the adjustment was unconstitutional and unlawful.

According to Comr. Taiga, “Local Government Chairmen have no power under Nigerian Law to alter boundaries. This reckless act is a recipe for crisis.”

Dr. Taiga disclosed that the dispute is already before a competent court, yet some parties were resorting to “self-help,” which he said undermines judicial authority, adding, “the judiciary must be respected. Any attempt to force a boundary change outside due process is a violation of the people’s rights.”

The National President of CDHR further alleged that a so-called consent judgment being used to back the adjustment was fraudulent, he added, “there are clear irregularities, exclusion of stakeholders, and possible manipulation. Such injustice cannot stand.”

Community members have been living in fear, with many expressing worry that the crisis could destroy homes, farmlands, and businesses.

One who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “we just want to live in peace, but this boundary issue keeps tearing us apart.”

ALSO READ: Ogboru Commiserates With Ibru Family Over Death Of Oskar Ibru, Says His Death Has Left A Big Vacuum

The Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR) called on the Delta State Government, the Attorney-General, and the Boundary Committee to act quickly to avert bloodshed just as they also called for an independent probe into the disputed judgment.

Dr. Taiga spoke further, “we demand an immediate halt to all boundary-related activities pending court resolution. The people deserve peace, not conflict. We are also appealing to aggrieved parties to remain calm.

“Full respect for judicial independence and Constitutional Separation of Powers. We want independent investigation into the alleged fraudulent consent judgment. There should be strict adherence to the original boundaries established by law and there should be non-compromise of justice by Delta State officials or institutions. We also want prompt intervention by the Governor of Delta State,Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and the Delta State Boundary Committee.”

Dr. Taiga further added, “all we want is peaceful and awful resolution to avoid violence and safeguard public safety.

End