The Rivers State Boundary Commission has taken decisive steps to resolve the lingering boundary dispute between Okoloma (Afam) Community in Oyigbo Local Government Area and Ban-Ogoi Community in Tai Local Government Area.
Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, who doubles as Chairman of the Commission, on Wednesday inaugurated a 13-member Technical Committee at the Government House, Port Harcourt, charging its members to approach the assignment with courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Prof. Odu, who personally inaugurated the panel, said the committee members were handpicked based on their proven integrity and track record. She described the task as delicate and sensitive, stressing that their recommendations must be credible, objective, and enduring to guarantee lasting peace and harmonious coexistence between the feuding communities.
“The assignment before you is a delicate one that must be approached with courage, determination, professionalism, and a strong sense of justice,” she said. “Your recommendations must be credible, objective, and capable of standing the test of time. The ultimate goal is to promote lasting peace and harmonious coexistence.”
The committee is mandated to determine the precise boundary line between the two communities, relying on relevant and valid documents submitted for its consideration.
Responding on behalf of the members, committee Chairman King Leslie Nyebuchi Eke thanked the state government for the confidence reposed in them.
He assured that the panel would work diligently within the one-month timeframe, exhibiting sound leadership, utmost professionalism, and foresight to deliver fair and objective outcomes that would aid the Boundary Commission in fostering enduring peace and mutual understanding.
Prof. Odu wished the committee successful deliberations and timely submission of its report.
The inauguration underscores the state government’s proactive approach to nipping communal tensions in the bud through structured dialogue and evidence-based resolution mechanisms.
The land dispute has been a source of concern in the affected areas, and stakeholders hope the technical committee’s intervention will bring a permanent end to the disagreement.
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