The Delta State Government’s Commission of Inquiry has concluded its sitting after hearing over 32 submissions from the public, including petitions heard on Friday from Azagba Ogwashi-Uku community representatives and Apostle Emwenwa, who represented Mr. Chiedu Onwadiamu.
The Azagba Ogwashi-Uku community accused His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, of illegally bulldozing structures near Delta State Polytechnic.
However, during cross-examination, Pastor Adingupu, the community’s representative, admitted that the land in question was part of the 500 hectares legally awarded to the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom by court judgments from Honorable Justice Theresa Diai, the current Chief Judge of Delta State.
Barrister Chike Onyemenam, SAN, representing the Obi, tendered incontrovertible evidence, including court judgments, a warrant of possession, and a certificate of possession, proving the land’s rightful ownership.
He further disclosed that the immediate past Obi had designated the area for a planned mega city, only for members of Azagba Ogwashi-Uku to illegally sell portions of the land to traders.
Over 120 fraudulent deeds of conveyance and applications for ratification by buyers were submitted to the commission as evidence.
Pastor Adingupu failed to produce any documentation to support claims of land sales by the Obi. Instead, Barrister Onyemenam presented overwhelming evidence of the Obi’s efforts to recover Ogwashi-Uku communal lands from illegal encroachments.
Apostle Emwenwa, representing Chiedu Onwadiamu, accused the Obi of kidnapping one Ekene Ugbah. However, when a recorded audio conversation was played to substantiate this claim, the translation revealed no evidence of wrongdoing.
Barrister Ngozi Chukura, counsel to Barrister Jude Obidi, dismantled the allegation by presenting police investigation reports identifying Ekene Ugbah as a suspect in the murder of Chukwunweike Alao.
Certified documents from the Delta State Ministry of Justice confirmed that suspects implicated in the crime were already facing trial at the High Court in Asaba.
In his final submission, the Obi’s lawyer emphasized the complete lack of evidence in all the allegations against His Majesty, describing them as part of a coordinated smear campaign.
He urged the commission to recognize that the Obi’s firm stance against land grabbing and illegal activities had made him a target of disgruntled individuals seeking to tarnish his reputation.
The proceedings consistently revealed that the claims against the Obi were baseless, with compelling evidence highlighting his dedication to protecting Ogwashi-Uku’s communal heritage.
As the commission concludes its work, it remains evident that the allegations were orchestrated attempts to discredit a monarch committed to justice and community development.
