Ijaw Kingdoms in Edo State Demand Autonomy and Recognition

The five Ijaw kingdoms in Edo State—Egbema, Olodiama, Okomu, Gbaran, and Furupagha—have accused the Edo State Government and the Oba of Benin of ongoing marginalization and deprivation. Chief Robinson Ogunkoruwei, President of Ijaws in Edo State, stated that the Ijaw population, spread across over 500 communities in Ovia South-West, Ovia North-East, and Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Areas, has faced deliberate division to undermine their political voice.

They assert their historical presence predates the Benin Kingdom, citing various historical accounts and institutions. The kingdoms demand the creation of three local government centers for Ijaw indigenes, immediate recognition of their five traditional rulers, and the option for Ijaw communities to join their counterparts in Delta and Ondo States.

They reference the 1988-1989 Constituent Assembly Report and the 1999 Constitution to support their claims. The leaders warned that failure to address these issues could heighten inter-ethnic tensions.