Elders and youths of Igueshodin N’Budin community in Benin, Edo State have denied allegations of collaborating with local vigilantes to attack Ogbeson Quarter residents, calling the claims “false and misleading”.
Speaking in Benin City, community spokesperson Mr Bright Ehimanmiegho clarified that the community, comprising four quarters, has coexisted peacefully under the Benin Kingdom’s traditional structure.
Ehimanmiegho attributed the dispute to a community member, Ikponwonsa Upkosisi, who allegedly attempted to establish a separate community within Igueshodin N’Budin, sparking tension four to five years ago .
Ehimanmiegho stated that the Oba of Benin is the only authority that can grant autonomy to a community, and the community reported Ikponwonsa Upkosisi’s actions to authorities after he ignored warnings.
The community wrote to the Oba’s Palace and local government, which confirmed Ogbeson is a quarter within Igueshodin N’Budin. Tensions rose, and police were petitioned after Ogbeson Quarter allegedly prepared for confrontation .
Ehimanmiegho alleged that Ogbeson Quarter members, led by Upkosisi, opened fire on police officers, injuring some
. He urged authorities to intervene, restore peace, and investigate the situation to prevent further escalation.
The community remains committed to peaceful resolution, emphasizing Ogbeson’s historical status as a quarter under Igueshodin N’Budin, confirmed by the Oba’s Palace.
