In a significant step toward ending years of violent unrest, traditional rulers from the Ijaw-speaking regions have inaugurated an 18-member peace committee to address the lingering crisis in the Okomu community and surrounding villages.
The committee was formally constituted in June following a high-level meeting of Ijaw monarchs representing riverine communities across Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa States. At the meeting, it was unanimously resolved that all factions must cease hostilities and work toward a sustainable, peaceful resolution.
The peace initiative was endorsed by several prominent Ijaw royal fathers, including:
HRM William Ogoba, Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom
HRM Zacheus Egbunu, Pere of Arogbo Kingdom
HRM Joel Ibane, Pere of Iduwini Kingdom
HRM Capt. King Frank Okiakpe, Pere of Gbaraun Kingdom
HRM Stephen Oyabebefa Ebikeme, Pere of Poromor Kingdom
HRM Godwin Ogunoyibo, Pere of Olodiama Kingdom
HRM Gbebokedi Ajiroba, Pere of Tubutoru Kingdom
HRM Roman Ikiyouseigha, Pere of Furupagha Kingdom
Unrest Blamed on Internal Divisions and Political Interference
Speaking to Hobnob News, the head of the peace committee, Chief Sunday Ajele, attributed the prolonged crisis to entrenched internal divisions and political interference allegedly fueled by the previous Edo State administration.
“The violence was worsened by political manipulation and the defiance of a former militant leader known as Lawrence, who refused to heed disarmament appeals by traditional rulers,” Ajele said.
He noted that despite prior interventions by the Ijaw National Congress and influential stakeholders, efforts to secure lasting peace had been frustrated.
According to Ajele, tensions escalated after a joint military and vigilante operation targeted Lawrence’s hideout, resulting in the destruction of property and deaths of his associates. This, in turn, triggered retaliatory attacks by the group, further destabilizing the region.
“Most security operatives fear going to the waterside, where Lawrence is believed to be hiding. After his base was attacked, he fled but returned to carry out revenge attacks,” he said.
Widespread Destruction Across Ijaw Villages
The conflict has taken a severe toll on several Ijaw communities including Okomu, Agbede, Oweike, and Okorodudu, with over 74 homes reportedly destroyed. In Agbede alone, more than 30 houses were razed, 18 in Winke, and 6 in Okorodudu.
Chief Ajele emphasized that the peace committee’s top priority is to unify the warring factions and initiate a comprehensive peacebuilding process in collaboration with national security agencies.
“We’re committed to bringing everyone under one roof, to live in unity. The era of division must end,” he stressed.
He also condemned what he described as “divide-and-rule tactics” by the past Edo State leadership, accusing them of inflaming tensions for political advantage.
Path Forward
The peace committee is expected to work closely with stakeholders, community leaders, and law enforcement to restore calm and ensure the safe return of displaced residents. The traditional rulers reiterated their commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for all affected Ijaw communities.
