Ijaw-Bini Tension: Ogidigba Calls For Calm, Urges Okpebholo to Create Development Centres, Royal Recognition For Ijaw Monarchs

By Monday Peters, Abuja

The National Chairman of Phase 3 Amnesty Programme Delegates Forum, Gen. Godstime Ogidigba, has urged the Bini and Ijaw ethnic groups in Edo State to shun social media attacks and pursue dialogue to resolve disputes in affected communities. He said the two groups have lived together peacefully for over 500 years.

Addressing journalists on August 1, 2026, Gen. Ogidigba called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to urgently intervene by establishing three development centers for Ijaw communities in Ikpoba-Okha, Ovia North-East, and Ovia South-West LGAs. He also requested approval of the Staff of Office for the five Ijaw traditional rulers in Edo State.

According to him, boundary disputes are common and not limited to Gelegele-Gbene, as similar issues have occurred between Ijaw communities and among Bini communities.

He appealed to the state government to act, noting that the Ijaw have a distinct language, culture, and tradition. He described the Ijaw as a peace-loving people committed to peaceful coexistence and the development of Edo State.

He added, “My appeal is that the Edo State Government should consider and implement the creation of the three development centers and approve the Staff of Office for Ijaw traditional rulers. The Ijaw language, culture, and traditions are distinct from those of the Bini ethnic group.”