A simmering land dispute in Illushi/Uroh, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, has reopened a wider national conversation about recurring complaints linked to Abuja-based lawyer Victor Giwa, as community leaders call for a deeper, independent probe into what they describe as a “troubling sequence of unresolved petitions.”
At a press briefing in Lagos, Evangelist Chris Okeh, former President of the Illushi Progressive Association of Nigeria (IPAN), said the community’s fresh call is not merely about a local conflict but about “a consistent pattern” of petitions emerging from different states, all pointing to similar allegations.
“For years, various communities and individuals have raised concerns. The question now is whether these issues are isolated incidents or indicators of something more systemic,” Okeh said.
He noted that while the Inspector-General of Police has acted on earlier reports, “several unanswered questions” remain—questions that have gained renewed urgency following recent public statements made by Giwa.
Across Abuja, Lagos and Edo, citizens such as Ms. Asabe Waziri, Ms. Ibeto Uche, and residents of Illushi/Uroh have filed petitions involving land disputes, alleged intimidation, and fears of misuse of legal or security channels. Okeh stressed that the community is not making conclusive allegations but demanding clarity.
“We want facts, not assumptions. A credible investigation will either clear the air or confirm the fears of those who have petitioned,” he said.
The community is appealing to the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to order an independent review of all pending complaints—especially those involving possible interference by security personnel in local disputes.
Prince Ibechile C.G. Mordi, who endorsed the statement on behalf of the community, said they are prepared to provide investigators with documents, witnesses, and other materials. “We’re not hiding anything. We want the truth established once and for all,” he said.
Analysts say the Illushi case underscores a broader problem: citizens in multiple regions increasingly claim that powerful individuals can influence legal or security processes—an issue that has fueled mistrust in some communities.
For the Illushi/Uroh community, the goal is simple: transparency, peace, and a definitive resolution.
“What we want,” Okeh concluded, “is confidence that the system works—not just for the powerful, but for everyone.”