Aiyedatiwa, security agencies urged to halt mayhem in Ebiwonjumi

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ondo State Government and security agencies have been urged to urgently intervene in the renewed violence in Ebiwonjumi community, Ilaje Local Government Area, following reports of killings and destruction of property.

The call was made by the member representing Ilaje Constituency I in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Abayomi Babatunde Akinruntan, who condemned the latest incident as the third reported attack on the community.

Akinruntan said the clashes had resulted in the destruction of houses, boats, engines, fishing gear and other valuables, leaving residents whose livelihoods depend largely on fishing facing further hardship.

He appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Federal Government and the Delta State Government to strengthen security around Ebiwonjumi and other vulnerable coastal communities to prevent further attacks.

The lawmaker also demanded a comprehensive investigation into the incidents and prosecution of those found responsible, irrespective of their ethnic or community affiliations, stressing that nobody should be allowed to take the law into their own hands.

He said disputes over land and territorial claims should be settled through dialogue and lawful procedures, rather than violence, noting that Ilaje and Itsekiri communities had maintained relationships through trade, intermarriage and other social interactions over the years.

Akinruntan further called for assistance to families whose homes and sources of livelihood were destroyed, urging traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, women and other stakeholders to work towards a lasting resolution of the dispute.

He appealed to residents on all sides to reject retaliation and inflammatory actions, while urging the governments and security agencies to act swiftly to restore peace and enable the affected residents return to their homes and fishing activities without fear.