The Bayelsa State Government has intervened in the lingering land dispute between Yenagoa and Ovom communities, urging the warring parties to sheathe their swords and embrace peace.
The dispute centers on the land housing the new nine-story state secretariat.
Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo made the appeal on Tuesday during separate meetings with leaders and stakeholders from both communities at Government House, Yenagoa.
He reminded the communities that the land was acquired by the government decades ago for developmental purposes, and as such, it has become government property.
Ewhrudjakpo emphasized that all communities within a 15-kilometer radius of Yenagoa fall under the state capital, and therefore, should work together to maintain peace and stability.
“There is no true progress in conflict. Disagreements can be resolved through dialogue, Yenagoa and Ovom have a shared history as sister communities in the Atissa Kingdom. Their contributions to the development of the state capital cannot be overlooked.” Ewhrudjakpo said.
The Deputy Governor also cautioned against any actions that could threaten the peace of the state, stressing that the current administration would not tolerate unrest.
He specifically addressed reports that some Ovom youths had been demanding that ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) modify their official documents and signboards to reflect Ovom instead of Yenagoa, issuing a stern warning against such actions.
Hon. Ayibanengiyefa Egba, representing Yenagoa Constituency 1 in the State House of Assembly, commended the government’s swift intervention and urged both communities to settle their differences peacefully for the sake of progress.
Other notable figures at the meetings included Chief Boma Spero-Jack, former Technical Adviser to the Governor on Conflict Resolution, and top government officials.
