Ogwashi-Uku Commission Of Inquiry Promises Fairness To All Parties
The Commission of Inquiry set up by the Delta State Government to look into the lingering kingship and land disputes within Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South and its neighbouring communities, has assured communities and stakeholders of its resolve to be fair, neutral and impartial in the conduct of its assignment.
The Chairman of the Commission, Justice Ejiro Emudainowho, gave the assurance while addressing representatives of the various communities and their legal teams at the inaugural sitting of the Commission at the Press Centre, Government House, Asaba.
Justice Emudainowho, who noted that the Commission of inquiry would commence hearing next week Wednesday equally stated that the panel was made up of men and women of proven character and integrity as well as committed to uncovering facts, examining evidences and hearing all perspectives with fairness.
She noted that the panel would conduct its proceedings with the highest degree of integrity and transparency, adding that it would provide a conducive environment where all voices would be heard, respected and considered in its final findings.
Justice Emudainowho also stated that members of the Commission recognized the gravity of its assignment in addressing complex and deep rooted issues concerning kingship and land ownership within Ogwashi-Uku and its neighbouring communities.
According to her, “the concerns that led to the setting up of the Commission of inquiry touched on core identity, heritage and stability within the affected communities’ kingship and land ownership matters, which were historical and cultural as well as of economic significance”
Furthermore, she noted that the disputes had led to conflicts and disruptions, assuring that the Commission of inquiry would strive to bring clarity, truth and ultimate peace to the long standing issues by being neutral and impartial.
She advised Counsels to the various communities and individuals to represent their clients with decorum considering the sensitive nature of the issues, and strive for dialogue that advanced understanding even in the face of disagreement.
She equally called on the media to give professional reportage to the sittings of the Commission of inquiry with accuracy, fairness and every sense of responsibility, noting that their reports could positively or negatively impact on the perception of the public.
The Commission chairman solicited the cooperation of the affected communities and urged them to trust the process as the Commission’s goal was not to deepen divisions but to bring understanding and unity to lay the ground work for a peaceful and cooperate future.
She noted that the Commission had received thirty memoranda so far and urged the Counsels to liaise with the secretariat for any information.
It would be recalled that the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, inaugurated the Commission of Inquiry in early October to look into boundary disputes, and communal clashes in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and its neighbouring communities and charged the Panel members to investigate the matter, unravel the remote and immediate causes of the crises, and make appropriate recommendations that will engender lasting peace. The Commission was expected to submit its report in two months
Aside Justice Ejiro Emudainowho who is the chairman of the Commission of Inquiry, other members include, Pharmacist Paul Enebeli, Mrs Ajoritsedere Awosika,Professor Andrew Onokerhoraye, Mr Charles Dike,a Deputy Commissioner of Police and Barrister Moses Namo, an Assistant Director, Department of State Services and Barrister Gabriel Ikemefuna Eze-Owenz, a Director, Advisory Services,Ministry of Justice as the commission’s Secretary