Edo:Inegbeniki cautions Dokubo
A prominent Niger Delta leader, Chief Francis Inegbeniki, has urged the traditional ruler of Rivers State, Alhaji Asari Dokubo, to avoid making comments that could undermine the long-standing peaceful relationship between the Ijaw people and their Benin neighbours in Edo State.
Speaking with journalists in Benin City on Tuesday, Inegbeniki described Dokubo’s recent remarks as unnecessary, inappropriate, and capable of generating avoidable tension between the two ethnic communities.
The Egbedi of Ozoro Land called on Dokubo to use his position as a traditional leader to foster peace, unity, and dialogue rather than making statements that could encourage division.
According to Inegbeniki, the Ijaw and Benin communities in Edo State have coexisted peacefully for many years, maintaining a relationship founded on mutual respect, cooperation, and understanding.
“The Ijaws in Edo State and their Benin neighbours have enjoyed years of peaceful coexistence and cordial relations, and every effort should be made to preserve that harmony,” he stated.
Recently inducted into the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Inegbeniki stressed that traditional rulers and community leaders must use their influence to strengthen peace and stability throughout the Niger Delta.
The Edo Central-born politician, businessman, and Board of Trustees member of HOSTCOM warned that provocative statements could create resentment and threaten the peaceful relationship between the Ijaw and Benin communities in Edo State.
He specifically referred to a viral video in which Asari Dokubo reportedly suggested that "Edo State is next," noting that such comments could incite unnecessary hostility between both ethnic groups.
“At a time like this, our focus should be on promoting peace, love, and unity in the interest of the Niger Delta region, rather than making comments capable of causing division,” he said.
Inegbeniki also commended the Benin traditional institution, led by the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, for sustaining a peaceful relationship with the Ijaw people over the years.
He noted that both communities have built strong ties through intermarriage, cooperation, and active participation in the political and social development of Edo State.
He pointed out that an Ijaw woman, Mrs. Asemota, recently came close to securing the senatorial ticket for the Edo South Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general election, describing it as evidence of the inclusive relationship between both groups.
Appealing for calm, Inegbeniki urged that any disagreements be resolved through established traditional and peaceful channels, noting that dialogue and mutual understanding have always been effective in settling disputes.
“If there is any misunderstanding, our Ijaw brothers know the appropriate avenues to address such issues peacefully. We have always relied on dialogue and mutual understanding to resolve our differences,” he added.