INTRODUCTION:
IN the outskirt/suburb of Benin City, Edo State, lies the Oke-Oroma community, a once-thriving neighborhood now ravaged by violence, destruction, and despair. At the center of this chaos is Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, an alleged land grabber accused of forcefully taking over several community land, leaving a trail of depression anguish bloodshed, devastation, and corruption in his wake.
The Story:
For decades, the Oke-Oroma community has been a peaceful and prosperous neighborhood, home to hundreds of families. However, in recent years, the community has been plagued by a series of violent attacks, killings, intimidation, and harassment allegedly orchestrated by Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, her father, the Odionwere of Amagba, Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwem and Peter Irhomwen aka Ebo-amagba.
According to eyewitnesses and victims, Iduoriyekemwen has been using his alleged connections with high-ranking police officers to terrorize the community, demolish homes, and destroy properties worth billions of naira. Many residents have been forced to flee, while others have been killed or injured in the violence.
Compromising the Police:
Allegations abound that Iduoriyekemwen has compromised the Nigeria Police Force, using his influence to stop and manipulate several initiated investigations, intimidate witnesses, and silence whistleblowers. Sources within the police force claim that Iduoriyekemwen has built relationships with senior officers over the years, who in turn provide him with protection and cover for his illicit activities which are against the public interest.
Victims Speak Out:
“I lost my husband and two children when Iduoriyekemwen’s thugs attacked our home,” said Mrs. Eghonghon, a widow and victim of the violence. “The police did nothing to help us. Instead, they arrested and detained my son for protesting against the land grabbing.”
“I was beaten and arrested by police officers who claimed I was trespassing on Iduoriyekemwen’s land,” said Mr. Osaro, a community leader. “It’s clear that the police are working with Iduoriyekemwen to silence us and take over our land.”
Conclusion:
The Oke-Oroma community’s struggle against Matthew Iduoriyekemwen’s alleged land grabbing and police corruption is a stark reminder of the dangers of impunity and the importance of accountability. As the community continues to fight for justice and equity, it is imperative that the Nigeria Police Force takes immediate action to address these allegations, protect the rights of the Oke-Oroma people, and bring perpetrators to justice.
Recommendations:
- The Inspector General of Police should launch an immediate investigation into the allegations of police corruption and complicity in the Oke-Oroma land grabbing since June 2012 till December, 2024.
- The Edo State Government should take steps to protect the rights of the Oke-Oroma community, including providing compensation for destroyed properties and ensuring the safe return of displaced residents.
- Matthew Iduoriyekemwen should be brought to justice for his alleged role in the violence, intimidation, and land grabbing.
Call to Action:
The people of Oke-Oroma community deserve justice, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that their voices are heard. We urge the authorities to take immediate action to address these allegations and bring perpetrators to justice.
