Concerned sons and daughters of Akpata Community in Arogbo Kingdom, Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, residing in Bayelsa State, have issued an open letter to the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, appealing against what they described as reports suggesting a possible move to transfer portions of Akpata ancestral land to neighbouring Ilaje communities.
In the letter addressed to the governor, the group called for caution, dialogue, and strict adherence to due process in handling issues relating to disputed land ownership and community boundaries.
The community members stated that although they hold deep respect for the office of the governor and have confidence in his leadership, they considered it necessary to raise concerns over developments they believe could affect peace and stability in the coastal region of the state.
According to the letter, the land in question represents more than territory, describing it as an ancestral heritage tied to the identity, history and inheritance of generations of Akpata people.
The group argued that decisions relating to such lands should be approached with fairness, transparency and broad consultation among all affected stakeholders.
The letter referenced historical communal conflicts associated with the disputed area, including the 1898 Akpata-Ilaje conflict, popularly remembered as the Tortor War (Ogun Tortor), as well as the 1998-1999 Akpata-Ilaje crisis.
According to the community, those conflicts led to displacement, destruction of property, loss of lives and long-term social and economic hardship for affected families.
The community also recalled that during the administration of late former Governor Dr. Olusegun Agagu, government intervention reportedly led to the preservation of a status quo arrangement which, according to them, contributed to maintaining peace and preventing renewed conflict in the area.
The group expressed concern that altering any existing arrangement without adequate engagement and lawful processes could create tension and reopen old grievances.
The concerned citizens maintained that they are committed to peaceful coexistence with neighbouring communities and stressed that their appeal should not be interpreted as hostility toward the Ilaje people.
They stated that lasting peace can only be sustained through justice, mutual respect and adherence to constitutional principles.
As part of their appeal, the group urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to publicly reassure residents that no action would be taken concerning the disputed land without due consultation and lawful determination.
They also called for the constitution of an independent and impartial panel made up of historians, survey experts and representatives of affected communities to examine any unresolved boundary concerns.
Additionally, they appealed to the state government to resist political pressure or sectional interests capable of influencing decisions that may affect communal harmony.
The letter further urged the governor to uphold the principles of equity, justice and the rule of law in resolving issues relating to ancestral land ownership.
The group concluded by expressing confidence in the governor’s ability to strengthen his legacy through decisions that promote reconciliation, fairness and sustainable peace.
They prayed for wisdom and guidance for the governor as he continues to lead Ondo State.
The letter was signed by Concerned Sons and Daughters of Akpata Community residing in Bayelsa State.
