Edo's Inegbeniki warns Dokubo against inflaming Ijaw‑Benin tensions

Chief Francis Inegbeniki, a leading figure in the Niger Delta, warned Rivers State traditional ruler Alhaji Asari Dokubo on Tuesday in Benin City to avoid remarks that could spark conflict between the Ijaw and their Benin neighbours in Edo State.

Speaking to journalists, Inegbeniki described Dokubo’s recent comments as unnecessary, ill‑advised, and capable of undermining the peaceful relationship that has long existed between the two communities.

As the Egbedi of Ozoro Land, Inegbeniki urged Dokubo to act as a peace ambassador, promoting unity, dialogue, and harmony rather than stoking division.

He noted that the Ijaws and Benin people in Edo State have historically shared mutual respect, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence.

“There has been a harmonious relationship and peaceful coexistence between the Ijaws in Edo State and their Benin neighbours, and this relationship must be sustained,” he said.

Recently inducted into the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Inegbeniki emphasized that traditional rulers and community leaders must use their influence to foster peace and stability across the region.

The Edo Central‑born politician, businessman and BOT member of HOSTCOM warned that inflammatory statements could provoke resentment and create unnecessary tension between the Ijaw and Benin communities in Edo State.

“The viral video by HRM Asari Dokubo, where he suggested that Edo State is next, is spreading rapidly and has the potential to pitch the Ijaws against their Benin brothers in Edo State. At this time, we should be preaching peace, love, and unity for the benefit of the Niger Delta region,” he said.

Inegbeniki further noted that the Benin people, under the leadership of their traditional institution and the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, have maintained a peaceful relationship with the Ijaws.

He added that the two groups have intermarried, worked together, and that Ijaws have continued to participate actively in Edo State’s political and social development.

“Only recently, an Ijaw woman in Edo State, Mrs. Asemota, almost emerged as the senatorial candidate to contest the 2027 general election for Edo South Senatorial District,” he said.

He appealed for any disagreement or misunderstanding to be handled through appropriate channels, emphasizing that the people of the region have always had traditional and peaceful ways of resolving issues.

“If there is any misunderstanding, our Ijaw brothers know the proper channels to resolve such matters amicably. We have always resolved issues through dialogue and mutual understanding,” he added.