Pharm Paul Enebeli Named Member State Commission of Inquiry on Ogwashi-Uku Disputes …. Commission to be Inaugurated 7th October 2024
ASABA/Nigeria: Pharmacist Paul Enebeli, former President General of the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), has been named as a member of a seven-man Commission of Inquiry established by the Delta State Government. The Commission has been tasked with investigating and resolving the longstanding kingship and land ownership disputes in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and its neighbouring communities, disputes that have led to violent clashes, loss of lives, and significant property destruction.
Enebeli, a prominent figure in Delta State, and a Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, previously served on the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council during the administration of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa. He is the Chairman of New Heights Pharmaceuticals, a former Chairman of the University of Benin Alumni Association, and has held the role of Vice Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter).
He was also one time Board member of the National Agency For Food And Drug Administration And Control (Nafdac) and a member of the 2014 National Conference, under former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Eze Emu, it was revealed that the decision to form the Commission followed extensive deliberations by the Delta State Security Council. The Council discussed the security challenges posed by the kingship and land ownership disputes, acknowledging the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to establish lasting peace in the affected areas.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori subsequently constituted the Commission, which will be chaired by Hon. Justice E.N. Emudainowho. The Commission is tasked with examining both the immediate and deeper causes of the conflicts and is expected to provide recommendations for a peaceful resolution. The Commission will be officially inaugurated on Monday, 7th October 2024, at 10:00 am.
The Commission’s members, drawn from diverse sectors, include:
- Hon. Justice E.N. Emudainowho – Chairman
- Dr. (Mrs) Ajoritsedere Josephine Awosika, OON, MFR, mni – Member
- Dr. (Pharm) Paul Enebeli – Member
- Prof Andrew Onokerhoraye – Member
- DCP Charles Dike, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Delta State – Member
- Barr. Moses Namo, Assistant Director, Department of State Services, Delta State – Member
- Barr. Gabriel Ikemefuna Eze-Owenz, Director (Advisory Services), Ministry of Justice – Member
In a related development, the Delta State Government has announced the suspension of all Clan Chiefs (Okwabanis) appointed by the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku in the disputed communities, pending the outcome of the Commission’s inquiry. This suspension affects the communities of Ibusa, Otulu, Ubulu-Okiti, Okpanam, Olodu, Ewulu, Azagba-Ogwashi, Aboh-Ogwashi, and Olloh-Ogwashi.
Despite the suspension of the Clan Chiefs, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku will continue to oversee traditional matters within his kingdom. Meanwhile, security agencies have been directed to ensure the protection of lives and property in the region as the inquiry proceeds.
The Delta State Government, committed to restoring peace and stability, has expressed confidence in the integrity of the Commission’s members and their ability to provide comprehensive and lasting solutions to the ongoing disputes.
