Konshisha-Oju Boundary Dispute Escalates, DiPA Urges Governor Alia for Decisive Action
The longstanding boundary dispute between Konshisha and Oju Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Benue State has reached a critical juncture.
The Diiv Progressive Agenda (DiPA), representing the Diiv people of Shangev-tiev in Konshisha, has called upon the state government for decisive intervention.
This appeal underscores a commitment to peace and highlights the historical complexities and recent tensions fueling the conflict.
DiPA has commended the current administration, led by His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for its proactive stance on security and law enforcement in Benue State.
They expressed confidence that this same dedication could be extended to resolving the intricate boundary issues involving Konshisha, Oju, Obi, and Gwer LGAs.
A critical point of contention involves encroachments by the Ainu/Ukpa people from Oju into territories historically associated with the Diiv sub-clan.
These encroachments have led to disputes over lands long held by the Shiliki and Dio families, as well as the Mbadyer Kindred.
Tensions have been exacerbated by recent claims on forest lands in the Ikyurav/Mbatwer District by the Etera, Gelwu, and Duluku people from Oju, resulting in violent clashes as recently as May 2024.
Moreover, the conflict between Bonta in Mbator Kindred of Mbagusa/Mbatser District and Ukpute-Ainu in Ukpa/Ainu Ette District has been particularly intense.
This dispute stems from the encroachment on the buffer zone that traditionally separated these communities, further complicating the already strained relations and leading to repeated violent confrontations.
Historically, landmarks and agreements have delineated these boundaries, serving as vital references to prevent conflict.
One such landmark is a giant heap beside a "Chiha" tree marking the boundary between the Mbator Kindred and Adiko Ward.
This point, marked by the stump of the "Chiha" tree along the "Chancha" footpath, signifies an age-old agreement where Chancha Igbagaav was buried alive as a human sacrifice for peace.
The Adiko people further cemented this peace by giving their daughter, Ugo, in marriage to Jembe Tor, establishing the first and only successful marriage between the Igede and Mbator communities. Ugo's first son, Adudu Jembe, is alive today, embodying this historical bond.
In addition to historical accounts, modern documents provide further support for these claims.
For instance, a land rent agreement exists between the Mbator community and Aprofim Nigeria Ltd for a road construction site.
This agreement included sourcing most construction labor from the Mbator community during the construction of the Awajir-Oju road, adding credence to their claim of ownership over the general area.
However, the Ainu/Ette community is now laying claims to this construction site and adjoining lands, fueled by crisis entrepreneurs exploiting the situation for their gain.
Another significant historical witness is the boundary between the Mbadyer Kindred and Ohuma Ukpa, established at Anyiase.
Evidence from both communities, including tax records, supports this boundary.
Similarly, the Mbakuhe Kindred's boundary with the Gbakera people of Ukpa/Ainu was traditionally marked at Antumba, backed by longstanding agreements and documented evidence.
This oath point was established in a manner similar to that between Mbator and Adiko. Till date, any attempt to destroy the boundary mark is visited with death.
There are minutes of peace meetings involving these communities at which fact was affirmed.
In light of these historical witnesses, DiPA has proposed the establishment of an independent boundary commission.
This body would include surveyors, historians, and representatives from all involved communities to meticulously review historical documents and oral testimonies to ascertain traditional boundaries.
Furthermore, they recommend the construction of a road along the agreed boundary, enhancing development and serving as a physical reference point for peace.
To ensure a comprehensive resolution, DiPA also calls for the inclusion of Obi Local Government in the boundary adjustment process, particularly as it pertains to the point at Bonta and Ukpute.
Given the persistent mention of the people of Adiko Ward of Obi and their involvement in the historical agreements, their inclusion is essential for a holistic and lasting solution.
Security measures to prevent further violence and political appointments of community members to authoritative positions are also part of DiPA's comprehensive recommendations.
Additionally, they urge collaboration between the Benue and Cross River State governments and the National Boundary Commission to resolve the broader boundary disputes impacting multiple LGAs.
The stakes are high, as unresolved disputes have previously led to devastating conflicts, such as the military invasion of Shangev-Tiev in 2020-2021.
The socio-economic impacts of these conflicts are deeply felt, and a fair, peaceful resolution is crucial for the future prosperity of all communities involved.
DiPA's appeal to Governor Alia is a testament to their belief in his administration's ability to foster lasting peace through historical evidence, community consensus, and adherence to official procedures.
Their proposals, if implemented, could pave the way for harmonious coexistence and shared development among the affected LGAs. The call to action is clear: only through collaborative efforts and a commitment to justice can a permanent solution be achieved.
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