By Lucky Akoza
The President General of Otor-Ogor community in Ughelli North local Government area of Delta State, Hon. Comrade Emmanuel U.K Tobi Ediri, has dismissed reports alleging that the Delta State Development and Property Authority (DDPA) was selling or planning to sell portions of the Ogor Modern Market.
The President General also used to medium to caution members of the public against buying any land within the market, stressing that such transactions are illegal.
Hon UK Tobi while briefing newsmen explained that the Ogor Modern Market land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government between 1975 and 1976 and it was developed during the administration of former Governor James Ibori.
He clarified that he never accused DDPA of land sales nor described Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as a land grabber.
According to him, tension arose after pillars were erected within the market, including near a police post and clinic, raising fears of illegal land sales.
He said, “The community initially raised concerns through the media to draw government attention but later learned that the exercise was a DDPA assignment to properly demarcate and secure the market land”.
Ediri subsequently tendered an unreserved apology to the Delta State Government, Governor Oborevwori, and the management of DDPA, saying that the agency was acting on official directives.
He assured that the Otor-Ogor community would not obstruct DDPA’s work and would cooperate to ensure transparency and proper boundary identification.
He reiterated that the community does not dispute the ownership of the land, which belongs to the Delta State Government, and said their only concern is the full development and functionality of the market.
He warned that anyone who purchases land within the Ogor Modern Market does so at their own risk.
Also speaking, Olorogun Monday Otobrise, the President General of Ogor confirmed that the land was acquired during the military administration of Air Commodore Ibrahim Kefas, adding that the DDPA chairman, Chief Tony Oboro, presented documents proving government ownership.
He stated that Ogor Kingdom has no dispute with DDPA or the state government and supports peaceful development of the market through dialogue and cooperation.
