Tension is mounting in Delta State as residents of Issele-Azagba and Okpanam express fears of renewed clashes following an alleged unconstitutional boundary adjustment between the two communities.
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has condemned the development, warning that it could trigger communal unrest and displace families if not urgently addressed.
In a statement issued in Warri, Comr. Dr. Kehinde P. Taiga, National President of CDHR, described the adjustment as “unconstitutional and unlawful,” stressing that local government chairmen lack the legal authority to alter community boundaries. “This reckless act is a recipe for crisis,” he warned.
Dr. Taiga noted that the dispute is already before a competent court, yet some actors are allegedly resorting to self-help in defiance of judicial authority.
“The judiciary must be respected. Any attempt to force a boundary change outside due process is a violation of the people’s rights,” he said.
The CDHR further alleged irregularities surrounding a purported consent judgment being cited to justify the adjustment.
According to Taiga, “there are clear irregularities, exclusion of stakeholders, and possible manipulation. Such injustice cannot stand.”
Community members have expressed concern that the crisis could destroy homes, farmlands, and businesses. One resident, who pleaded anonymity, said: “We just want to live in peace, but this boundary issue keeps tearing us apart.”
The human rights group has called on the Delta State Government, the Attorney-General, and the State Boundary Committee to intervene swiftly to prevent bloodshed.
It also demanded an independent investigation into the disputed consent judgment.
“We demand an immediate halt to all boundary-related activities pending court resolution. The people deserve peace, not conflict,” Dr. Taiga stated.
“There must be full respect for judicial independence, strict adherence to established boundaries, and prompt intervention by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the Delta State Boundary Committee.”
He emphasized that CDHR’s ultimate goal is a peaceful and lawful resolution that safeguards lives, property, and public safety.
