Proposed Toru-Ebe State: IYC clarifies position on Ijaw land ownership in Edo

…Says Toru-Ebe State is a long-standing Ijaw aspiration

…Calls for responsible public discourse on sensitive historical issues

By Chancel Sunday

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Worldwide, has called for clarification and restraint following comments attributed to the member representing Ovia North-East and South-West Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Omosede Gabriella Igbinedion, regarding land ownership in parts of Edo State inhabited by Ijaw communities.

The IYC made its position known during a press briefing in Warri, where its spokesperson, Comrade (Amb.) Binebai Yerin Princewill, said the council considered it necessary to clarify historical and cultural perspectives concerning Ijaw communities in Edo State.

Princewill said the council’s intervention was aimed at promoting understanding and preventing misinterpretation of historical narratives, especially on issues related to land, identity and state creation.

According to him, the Ijaw people have historically occupied areas within present-day Edo State and have maintained distinct communities with recognized traditional institutions over time.

He explained that the agitation for the creation of Toru-Ebe State is a long-standing aspiration of the Ijaw people, rooted in their desire for administrative convenience and effective representation, rather than any intention to challenge existing traditional institutions.

Princewill stated that Ijaw communities in Edo State have established kingdoms, including Furupa, Olodiama, Egbema and Okomu, each with its own traditional leadership structure.

The IYC spokesperson emphasized that the council respects all traditional institutions and cultural heritage in the region, while urging public officials to exercise care and responsibility when making statements on sensitive historical and cultural matters.

He added that constructive dialogue and mutual respect remain essential to peaceful coexistence and national unity.

The council appealed to relevant authorities and stakeholders to encourage calm, accurate and respectful engagement on the proposed Toru-Ebe State and related issues, noting that such matters should be addressed through lawful and constitutional processes.