The Illushi/Uroh community in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State has urged a renewed and thorough investigation into longstanding land disputes and complaints involving Abuja-based lawyer, Victor Giwa.
The call was made at a press briefing in Lagos by Evangelist Chris Okeh, former President of the Illushi Progressive Association of Nigeria (IPAN), who said the community had, over several years, submitted petitions to relevant authorities concerning disputes in the area and concerns linked to Barr. Giwa.
According to Okeh, while the Inspector-General of Police had made some progress on earlier petitions, significant aspects of the investigations remain unresolved. He explained that the briefing was prompted by recent public statements by Giwa, which have reignited concerns among complainants in Abuja, Lagos, and Edo State.
“We cannot remain silent while narratives that may mislead the public continue to circulate,” Okeh said. “Our interest is in ensuring peace, due process, and accountability.”
He commended the Inspector-General of Police, the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), and the Judiciary for their ongoing efforts to address the concerns raised by affected individuals. Okeh also drew attention to citizens who had lodged petitions across the country, including Ms. Asabe Waziri in Abuja, whose case is currently before the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Ms. Ibeto Uche in Lagos, and several members of the Illushi/Uroh community.
“These petitions contain claims relating to land disputes, intimidation, and alleged misuse of legal or security processes,” he said. “We are not making definitive accusations but are calling for clarity through transparent investigation. Every honest Nigerian should ask whether it is coincidence or a pattern that people from multiple states have raised similar concerns. Only a thorough investigation can provide answers.”
The community appealed to the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to order an impartial review of all outstanding petitions, including any concerns regarding the involvement of security personnel in local community matters.
Prince Ibechile C.G. Mordi, who signed the statement on behalf of the community, reaffirmed their readiness to cooperate with investigators.
“We have documents, witnesses, and materials to support our petitions and will present them whenever called upon,” he said.
Despite raising concerns, the community commended law-enforcement authorities and the judiciary, noting that their efforts reassure citizens that no individual is beyond scrutiny. The Illushi/Uroh community urged peaceful engagement and a transparent resolution of all outstanding issues affecting the area.
