By Our Correspondent
National News – The Bayelsa State Government has successfully resolved a longstanding land dispute between Ofoni and Lalagbene communities.
Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining cordial relations and called on both communities to refrain from signing any memorandum of understanding (MoU) without government oversight to prevent conflicts and ensure fairness.
Deputy Governor Dr. Peter Akpe met representatives of Ofoni and Lalagbene communities, alongside officials from Renaissance African Energy Company Limited, at Government House, Yenagoa, on Tuesday.
He urged the communities to channel grievances through official government agencies, warning that unilateral actions could lead to hostilities and the destruction of lives and property.
Dr. Akpe stressed that government guidance in MoU drafting is essential to prevent communal disputes and ensure that communities receive accurate information before agreements are signed.
On the specific Ofoni-Lalagbene conflict, evidence confirmed that the land housing Renaissance Africa Energy’s former SPDC Location 2 belongs to Lalagbene community.
Meanwhile, Ofoni community retains ownership rights over Location One in the Iseni Oilfield.
Dr. Akpe encouraged Renaissance Africa Energy Company to respect Ofoni’s entitlements while urging both communities to strengthen their collaboration.
“People taking up arms will not solve the problems. Government involvement in MoUs is mandatory to avoid disputes,” he added.
Renaissance officials, including General Manager Evans Krukrubo and land adviser Ojie Amejayo, clarified that Location One was acquired in 1972 from Ofoni in the Ekeremor LGA, while Location Two was acquired in 1973 from Lalagbene.
Community representatives, including Dr. O. O. Osusu, Sir Jacob Akpane, Dr. Abraham Ebakpa, and Mr. Lenin Koko, expressed appreciation for the state government’s intervention and committed to upholding the truce.
The resolution underscores Bayelsa’s commitment to peace, responsible land management, and corporate-community partnerships.
It also highlights the government’s proactive role in mediating disputes to prevent violence and safeguard community interests.
