The prolonged leadership crisis involving Ekuku-Agbor and Ekuku-Uboh communities in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State has reportedly taken another violent turn, with several persons feared dead and others injured.

The latest incident has also raised fresh concerns over the safety of Mr Osadebe Sunday Onyekachukwu, the youth leader of Ekuku-Agbor.

According to eyewitness accounts, Onyekachukwu was pursued by armed youths during the confrontation and was forced to flee the community.

Sources said the youth leader had previously been attacked at his residence by unidentified gunmen.

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His role as community youth leader has allegedly placed him at the centre of the dispute, with some residents claiming that he was viewed as an obstacle to attempts to alter the traditional leadership structure of Ekuku-Agbor.

However, the allegations have not been independently verified.

Crisis Linked to Traditional Leadership

The dispute reportedly became more pronounced in August 2023 following the Federal Government’s announcement concerning the discovery of crude oil in the area.

Members of Ekuku-Uboh have reportedly claimed historical ownership and founding ties to Ekuku-Agbor, saying their forebears later moved to Ekuku-Uboh in search of economic opportunities.

The historical claim has allegedly fuelled disagreements over land, authority and traditional leadership.

The dispute has reportedly centred partly on the traditional throne currently occupied by His Royal Highness, Obi Paul Owuzo.

A community source alleged that some members of Ekuku-Uboh wanted the existing traditional arrangement changed.

The allegation remains a matter of dispute between the communities.
Police Reportedly Not Yet Made Arrest
The matter has reportedly been brought before the Nigeria Police Force.

However, at the time of filing this report, there was no confirmed information on arrests arising from the latest incident.

Residents are calling for urgent security intervention to prevent further attacks and protect lives and property.

They are also appealing to the Delta State Government to intensify its mediation efforts and ensure that the dispute does not degenerate into prolonged communal violence.

Appeal for Peace

Community members have urged the two sides to abandon confrontation and return to dialogue.

They said the traditional leadership dispute should be handled through lawful institutions and peaceful negotiations rather than violence.

Meanwhile, the whereabouts of Onyekachukwu remain unclear following the reported January 5, 2024 attack.

The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive resolution of the longstanding dispute before further lives are lost.