The Delta State government has said it now has enough proof to begin an investigation into claims that the traditional ruler of Owa Kingdom, Obi Emmanuel Efeizomor, was involved in taking people’s land unfairly. This came after protesters shared their complaints and evidence with government officials.

Edwin Uzor, who is the Special Adviser to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, confirmed that several people—mostly widows—have come forward with their stories and documents. These testimonies have encouraged the government to take the matter seriously and start looking into it properly.

The adviser met with the Owa-Oyibu Development Initiative (ODI), a group that had earlier protested about the issue. They later paused the protest after leaders in the Delta State House of Assembly asked for calm. Uzor said the government has now started its investigation and will do its best to find a peaceful solution.

He promised that the investigation will move fast so that the issue can be resolved quickly. He also said that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is committed to protecting every Deltan, whether they are rich or poor, and won’t allow anyone to be treated unfairly.

Uzor also spoke directly to the youth in the community, asking them to stay calm and trust the government to do the right thing. He asked for peace while the investigation goes on and said the community should give the government the benefit of the doubt.

While speaking to over 100 people from the Owa Kingdom who were present, Uzor said he was satisfied with the evidence they had provided so far. He thanked them for staying peaceful and asked them to keep being calm while the government continues its work.

Meanwhile, the head of the Owa-Oyibu Development Initiative, Benson Nkeki, explained why the group decided to protest. He said they were protesting against the traditional ruler because he was using his power to take people’s land without proper reason, pretending it was legal.

Nkeki said their protest was a result of many complaints about land being forcefully taken away by the monarch. He added that although the group has now agreed to stop protesting for the moment because of the government’s involvement, they are still watching closely.

He said if the investigation doesn’t lead to real action, they will resume their protest and even take it to the National Assembly and higher levels if necessary. He stressed that the group is law-abiding but wants justice.