- I.Y.G.G Clarifying the Ownership of Warri: A Response to Commissioner Charles Aniagwu’s Misrepresentations
We the leadership and members of Itsekiri youths for good governance find it imperative to address the recent statements made by the Honourable Commissioner for Works, Rural Development, and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, as an Itsekiri pressure group, we find it difficult to believe a commissioner of the State government during his appearance on Arise TV will tell such lies and make such assertions regarding the ownership of Warri.
These information are not only misleading but also, it disregard established legal precedents affirming the Itsekiri people’s rights to the land.
Historical and Legal Affirmation of Itsekiri Ownership
The Itsekiri people’s ownership of Warri is well-documented and has been upheld by various courts, including the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Notably:
1. Chief B.A.M.E. Awani & Ors v. Erejuwa II, The Olu of Warri (1976): The Supreme Court recognized the overlordship of the Olu of Warri over lands in the New Ode-Itsekiri Layout at Ekurede village, Warri Division. The court affirmed that this overlordship is exercised in accordance with Itsekiri customary law and vested in the Itsekiri Communal Land Trustees .
2. D.O. Idundun & Ors v. Daniel Okumagba (1976): In this case, the court acknowledged that the land in question at Okere, Warri, is the property of the Ogitsi family of Okere, subject only to the overlordship of the Olu of Warri. The judgment emphasized the validity of Itsekiri customary law in determining land ownership .
3. Chief Sam Warri Esi v. The Chief Secretary to the Federation of Nigeria & Ors (1973): The Supreme Court held that the Agbassa people, including the Igbudu, are customary tenants under the overlordship of the Olu of Warri. The court stated that their tenure is subject to the incidents of customary tenancy, reaffirming the Olu’s authority over the land .
These judgments, among others, establish the Itsekiri people’s legal rights to Warri and its environs, grounded in both historical occupancy and customary law.
Selective Recognition of Court Judgments
It is concerning that the Delta State Government appointee appears to selectively recognize court judgments. While the government has acted upon a limited court ruling involving two families in the Idundun v. Okumagba case, which awarded 281.1 acres of land on a possessory basis, it has often ignored other judgments that affirm the Itsekiri people’s ownership rights. This selective recognition undermines the rule of law and promotes ethnic bias, which a current commissioner should avoid.
Marginalization of the Itsekiri People
The Itsekiri people have a significant presence in Delta Central, with established communities in Sapele, Ethiope West, Uvwie, and other local government areas. Despite this, the Delta State Government, predominantly led by individuals of Urhobo descent, has consistently marginalized the Itsekiri people, denying them adequate representation and recognition in governance.
Call for Accountability
As a public servant, Commissioner Aniagwu is expected to uphold the principles of fairness and impartiality. His repeated dissemination of false information not only discredits his office but also threatens the peace and unity of Delta State, the antecedents he deployed and displayed that lead to his former Boss woefully losing the 2023 general election in Delta State. We urge the Delta State Government to:
Publicly disassociate itself from Commissioner Aniagwu’s statements.
Recognize and uphold all court judgments affirming the Itsekiri people’s rights.
Ensure equitable representation and treatment of all ethnic groups within the state.
Failure to address these concerns may lead to increased tensions and unrest in Delta State. We call upon all stakeholders to prioritize justice, equity, and the rule of law in the interest of lasting peace and development.
Signed:
Mr. Sam Oki Metsh
Secretary
Mr. George Omatshuli
PRO
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