The people of Inikorogha Community in Ovia South West Local Government Area have rejected allegations that Okomu National Park and its surrounding riverine communities are facing a security threat due to alleged arms stockpiling.
In a statement, the community urged the federal government, the Edo State government, and the park’s management to disregard the claims, asserting that some of the individuals behind the allegations are not from the community, while others are still reeling from their defeat in the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
The Concerned Sons and Daughters of the Riverine Area of Edo State had recently called on the federal government to address an alleged security threat to the Okomu National Park and the nearby riverine communities.
In a statement signed by national coordinator Chief Sile Bekewi, secretary Hon. Ogidigba Godstime, and spokesperson Hon. Ezekiel Daniel, the group claimed that certain individuals were amassing firearms to terrorize the communities and facilitate illegal activities.
However, the Inikorogha community’s statement, signed by Bonaji Igiriwe, Chairman of the Elders Council, Hon. Timi Robert, Community Chairman, and Ukulor Stanley, Youth President, dismissed these claims as false.
They appealed to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Edo State Governor His Excellency Monday Ikpebholo, the Minister of Environment, the IGP, DSS, Chief of Army Staff, and the Commander of the 4th Brigade, Edo State, as well as the general public, to ignore the misleading reports.
The statement emphasized: “It is important to note that Inikorogha is the riverine community hosting Okomu National Park. There is no security threat to either Inikorogha or the park. The park’s staff live peacefully and in harmony with the local communities and have raised no concerns.”
The community also criticized the sources of the rumors, describing them as associates of the former Edo State governor, who they claimed were involved in illegal activities like unapproved logging.
“In 2023, a timber lorry linked to these individuals was intercepted by the park for attempting to steal timber from Okomu National Park,” the statement added.
Finally, the community reiterated that both Inikorogha and Okomu National Park remain peaceful and that the park operates within the law, including its management of felled logs.
