Benin City, Nigeria – The recent spike in violence in the Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State has sparked concern as the region prepares for the upcoming governorship election. The tragic killing of three workers from Okomu Oil Palm Company PLC, along with an additional community member, has sent shockwaves through the area. This escalation in violence has resulted in deaths, property damage, injuries, and the displacement of numerous residents.
Tensions in the region reached a boiling point on June 7 when three soldiers, tasked with maintaining peace, were ambushed and injured while on duty in the area. This attack on military personnel has raised alarm, especially in light of the recent killing of 20 soldiers in a neighboring community. The perpetrators of these violent acts remain unidentified, adding to the growing unease in the area.
The initial violence on May 6, which claimed the lives of three Okomu Oil Palm Company PLC employees, sent ripples of fear throughout the community. However, reports indicated that the attack was carried out by unknown assailants, dispelling initial suspicions of community involvement. The company’s Public Relations officer emphasized the company’s positive relationship with local communities and expressed hope for justice through police intervention.
The gravity of the situation became even more apparent on May 12 when assailants struck again, resulting in the death of a resident and significant property damage. A handwritten letter left at the scene revealed the attackers’ demands for shares in the oil company and representation on the company’s board, citing ownership claims over the land. The letter also called for the creation of a local government for the Ijaw people in Edo State, further complicating the underlying tensions in the region.
Efforts to address the ongoing violence have been met with challenges, as community leaders appeal to government and security agencies for assistance. The need for relief materials for displaced persons, permanent security measures, and a resolution to the underlying grievances have been highlighted in pleas from community representatives.
As stakeholders grapple with finding solutions to the complex issues at hand, the situation remains precarious. The history of marginalization and disputes over land rights underscore the deep-seated concerns fueling the violence. The need for dialogue and a holistic approach to address the root causes of the conflict has emerged as a crucial step towards lasting peace and stability in the region.