Chief Francis Inegbeniki, a prominent Niger Delta leader, has urged Alhaji Asari Dokubo, a traditional ruler in Rivers State, to avoid making statements that could incite conflict between the Ijaw and Benin communities in Edo State.
Speaking in Benin City, Inegbeniki criticized Dokubo’s recent comments as unnecessary and potentially damaging to the long-standing peaceful relationship between the two ethnic groups. He emphasized the importance of promoting unity and dialogue, and urged Dokubo to act as a peace ambassador instead of making divisive remarks.
According to him, the Ijaw and Benin people have historically shared a relationship founded on mutual respect and cooperation.
“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,”
Inegbeniki further noted that the Benin people, under the leadership of the 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.
“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,”
“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.
