Oromoni, Oyibode Push for Reconciliation at Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Peace Dialogue ~ Truth Reporters

 

The Warri South-West Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni, has reaffirmed his commitment to ending the decades-long conflict between the Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities, as he co-chaired the first official peace meeting with his Udu counterpart, Hon. Vincent Oyibode.

The historic dialogue, convened on Tuesday at Park Royale Hotel, Warri, brought together critical stakeholders from both communities. The meeting followed an appeal by both chairmen to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori after the state government signaled its intention to take over the disputed land.

In his remarks, Hon. Oromoni recalled the bond that once united the two communities and emphasized the need to put an end to decades of hostility.

“Growing up, you could never separate Ogbe-Ijoh and Aladja community. We lived in harmony but now we are living in dispute. During these 30 years, promising youths have died from both communities. Their children and families are suffering and we need to put an end to it. Let us put heads together and put an end to the crisis,” he stated.

The chairman further warned against individuals instigating conflict for selfish gains, stressing that the council would not fund violence. “This council belongs to all tribes and communities under Warri South-West. I made it clear that the council will not bring out any money to fund crisis,” he said.

On his part, Hon. Oyibode urged both communities to embrace reconciliation and move away from inherited quarrels. “We are not happy with the number of people we have lost, so we want peace. Since we need peace, it’s the peace we are here to drive. Nobody can settle our disputes better than us. If all members of the communities are wiped off, the land will remain. The government would have taken this over but we as chairmen decided to discuss amongst ourselves. We must champion peace and this is the bedrock of why we are here,” he declared.

At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed not to engage in crisis and resolved to strengthen unity by meeting in times of celebration. They further pledged to discourage rumor-mongering and negative social media posts, with offenders to face community sanctions. It was also resolved that pending court cases would be put on hold until the peace process is finalized, and that regular follow-up meetings would be held within the local governments, with the next session scheduled before September 22.

Observers described the meeting as a bold and unprecedented step toward reconciliation, noting that it marked the first time the Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities have met for peace talks outside the disputed areas. Both chairmen reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the resolutions translate into lasting stability for the people.