The Obe-Apata Ilaje Youth Congress has firmly rejected what it described as Ijaw land grabbing attempts, insisting that Obe-Apata is an Ilaje community within Ugbo Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
In a statement, the Congress maintained that the community’s historical, political, and geographical identity remains firmly rooted in Ugbo Kingdom. It also called for peace and dialogue, urging all parties to resolve disagreements through lawful and constructive engagement.
The group further clarified that Obe-Apata Ilaje and Opu-Akpata are two separate communities, stressing that they are divided by a natural geographical boundary known as Iton Gboro (Long Canal). According to the Congress, Opu-Akpata is situated on the opposite side of the canal, while Obe-Apata remains part of Ugbo Kingdom. It argued that the distinction between the two communities has existed over time and should not be misrepresented in ongoing discussions surrounding the area.
The Congress urged the public and relevant stakeholders to distinguish between the two settlements, insisting that conflating them has contributed to misunderstandings over the dispute. It reiterated its commitment to peace while calling for respect for historical records, geographical boundaries, and due process in addressing the matter.