Tension has reportedly heightened in Ekuku-Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, following a fresh violent incident linked to the longstanding leadership dispute between Ekuku-Agbor and neighbouring Ekuku-Uboh.
Several persons were reportedly killed in the latest incident, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Among those said to have been targeted is the community youth leader, Mr Osadebe Sunday Onyekachukwu, who, according to accounts from residents, had previously survived an attack by unidentified gunmen at his residence.
An eyewitness account alleged that Onyekachukwu became a major target because of his position as the youth leader of Ekuku-Agbor and his perceived role in mobilising residents to protect the community.
The witness further claimed that he was pursued by armed youths during the latest confrontation, forcing him to flee the community after sustaining serious injuries.
Leadership Dispute
The crisis reportedly dates back to August 2023, following the disclosure of crude oil discovery in Ekuku-Agbor.
According to claims attributed to members of Ekuku-Uboh, the community was historically connected to the founding of Ekuku-Agbor, with their ancestors allegedly having relocated to Ekuku-Uboh in search of better economic opportunities.
The claim has reportedly become a major point of contention between the two communities, with the disagreement subsequently developing into a dispute over traditional leadership and territorial claims.
A native of Ekuku-Agbor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that the conflict was partly connected to efforts to change the traditional leadership structure of the community.
The source claimed that the ultimate objective of the rival group was to remove the incumbent monarch, His Royal Highness, Obi Paul Owuzo, and install a different traditional authority.
These claims could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report.
Youth Leader Reportedly Missing
Residents said Onyekachukwu has not been seen in Ekuku-Agbor since the January 5, 2024 incident, following the reported armed pursuit that forced him to leave the community.
According to the accounts, he sustained gunshot-related injuries during the incident and subsequently went into hiding for safety.
The circumstances surrounding his current whereabouts remain unclear.
Government Intervention
The Delta State Government has reportedly been engaging representatives of both communities in an attempt to resolve the dispute through dialogue.
However, sources said no final agreement had been reached before the latest reported violence.
The matter has also reportedly been brought to the attention of the Nigeria Police Force, although no arrest had been confirmed at the time of filing.
Residents have therefore appealed to the government and security agencies to strengthen security around the affected communities to prevent further bloodshed.
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They also urged the parties involved to sheathe their swords and embrace dialogue, stressing that the dispute should be resolved through lawful and peaceful means.
The latest development has renewed concerns over the safety of residents and the need for authorities and community leaders to find a lasting solution to the leadership dispute.
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