•Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo
A 40-year-old indegene of Ukhun in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo, Mr. Omonzemoya Shadrach, has alleged that he has been ostracised by his community for challenging the sales of communal lands.
Shadrach’s allegations were contained in a statement titled “Re: Letter of Protest Against Indiscriminate Sales of Land”, signed by his counsel, K.U. Eriata Esq., and made available to journalists, reports Daily Independent.
In his statement, Shadrach highlighted the importance of accountability in governance, stressing that it is not just a concept but a fundamental principle for socio-economic stability and the preservation of communal resources.
Shadrach further accused certain individuals within the Ukhun community of disregarding traditional norms and exploiting communal land for personal gain.
He stated that over 45 plots of land, valued at approximately N18 million, have been sold without proper consultation or the consent of the community, an act which he said violates Ukhun’s customs that prioritise collective decision-making and resource sustainability.
Shadrach who has been a notable youth leader in the community further alleged that the traditional ruler has expanded the scope of these land sales, earmarking even larger portions of communal land for private transactions.
This unilateral approach, he said, undermines the authority of the Odion-Egbe—the traditional heads of Ukhun’s various quarters—and betrays the trust placed in the royal institution.
In addition to the concerns of land mismanagement raised, Mr. Shadrach decried the unilateral abolition of key elements of the Iruen festival, a longstanding cultural ceremony passed down through generations.
He noted that this decision was made without proper consultation with community elders or representatives of Ukhun’s ten quarters.
“The traditions and customs of the Ukhun people are being eroded for selfish interests, and the community is on the verge of losing its cultural identity,” Shadrach stated.
Shadrach emphasised that Ukhun, known for its rich culture and history of peaceful coexistence, is now facing internal unrest due to what he described as maladministration, high-handedness, and abuse of power.
He warned that legal action would be taken to safeguard the community’s heritage, customs, and resources. “The God and ancestors of Ukhun are watching. Justice will prevail to end this reign of tyranny,” he declared.
He however called on the Ukhun people to resist the mismanagement of their collective heritage and restore accountability to secure the community’s future.
He underscored the need for transparent and equitable management of communal resources, stating that the people would no longer remain passive in the face of these injustices.
