Communal Crisis: Aggrieved Aladja Women Demand An End To Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh Crisis

By Jowhorue Israel

Aggrieved women from Aladja, in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, gathered today to protest against the prolonged and violent crisis between the people of Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

Marching in large numbers, the angry protesters expressed their grievances through solidarity songs, demanding an immediate resolution to the ongoing crisis.

This conflict has resulted in the loss of husbands and fathers, leaving some women as widows and children without fathers.

They passionately appealed to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, to intervene and bring an end to the crisis.

Addressing the crowd, Mrs. Florence Shakawho the spokesperson, stated that the peaceful demonstration aimed to draw the government’s attention to their plight.

“We are tired of this crisis, we are tired of Ogbe-Ijaw incessant attack of aladja people, most especially the recent attack that happened last night. The women are tired of loosing their husbands and children.”

Another woman, Mrs. Badidi, shed light on the alleged involvement of Major Capt. Solomon, who is believed to be aiding the people of Ogbe-Ijaw. She claimed that he used his position to supply resources to Ogbe-Ijaw and supported their encroachment on Aladja’s land.

Mrs. Badidi appealed to the Governor to utilize his authority to resolve the crisis, questioning whether the Ogbe-Ijaw Local Government’s administrative building was more valuable than the lives of Aladja’s residents.

She suggested that the Governor consider constructing an institution or government agency on the disputed land to help bring an end to the conflict.

The Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh crisis, which originated from a land dispute between the neighboring communities, has persisted since 1996. Despite previous government efforts, the crisis remains unresolved to this day.