By Haruna Salami
The Illushi/Uroh community in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State has called for a renewed, comprehensive investigation into longstanding land disputes and petitions filed against Abuja-based legal practitioner, Barrister Victor Giwa.
The demand was made during a press briefing held in Lagos and addressed by Evangelist Chris Okeh, former President of the Illushi Progressive Association of Nigeria (IPAN).
Okeh disclosed that the community had, over the years, submitted multiple petitions to relevant authorities concerning land-related conflicts and issues allegedly linked to Giwa. While acknowledging that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) had made progress on earlier complaints, he noted that critical aspects of the matter remained unresolved.
He explained that the latest media briefing was prompted by recent public comments credited to Giwa, which, according to him, had triggered fresh anxiety among complainants in Abuja, Lagos and Edo State.
“We cannot remain silent while narratives that may mislead the public continue to circulate,” Okeh stated, stressing that the community’s core interest is peace, due process and accountability.
The community commended the Inspector-General of Police, the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and the judiciary for what it described as their steady efforts toward addressing concerns raised by affected individuals.
Okeh referenced petitions already before various authorities, including those filed by Ms. Asabe Waziri in Abuja — a matter currently before the Federal Capital Territory High Court; Ms. Ibeto Uche in Lagos; and others submitted by members of the Illushi/Uroh community. He said the petitions centre on allegations of land disputes, intimidation and possible misuse of legal or security processes.
He stressed that the community was not passing judgment but seeking clarity through due process.
“Every honest Nigerian should ask whether it is coincidence or a pattern that people from multiple states have raised similar concerns. Only a thorough investigation can provide answers,” he added.
The community urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to order an impartial review of all pending petitions, including alleged involvement of security personnel in local matters.
Prince Ibechile C. G. Mordi, who signed the statement on behalf of the community, reaffirmed their readiness to fully cooperate with authorities.
“We have documents, witnesses and materials to support our petitions, and we will present them whenever called upon,” he affirmed.
Despite their concerns, the community praised law-enforcement agencies and the judiciary for their continued attention to the matter, noting that such commitment reassures citizens that no individual is beyond scrutiny.
The community further appealed for peaceful engagement and a transparent resolution of all outstanding issues affecting the Illushi/Uroh community.
