Appeal Court Reasserts Itsekiri Control Of Warri South
Judicial Clarity as Appeal Court Rules on Warri South Ownership
THE Court of Appeal has once again settled the question of ownership and territorial authority in Warri South Local Government Area, reaffirming the Itsekiri people as the lawful custodians of the territory.
The ruling, delivered on Tuesday in Appeal No. CA/AS/154/2024, dismissed an appeal brought by Ijaw parties challenging established legal positions on land ownership within the area.
Ogbe-Ijoh Claims Rejected
According to the judgment, Ogbe-Ijoh and its affiliates possess no legal claim to land or governance structures within Warri South. The court ruled that the appeal failed to displace existing evidence and prior judgments that clearly define the boundaries and ownership of the local government area.
By dismissing the case outright, the appellate court effectively closed another chapter in a series of legal battles over Warri South.
A Ruling with Administrative Consequences
The judgment is expected to guide future administrative decisions affecting Warri South, including land allocation, community development agreements, traditional leadership recognition, and interactions with oil companies operating in the area.
Stakeholders say the ruling offers certainty to investors, government agencies, and host communities by clarifying who holds legitimate authority over the territory.
Strengthening Legal Certainty in Delta State
Legal observers describe the ruling as a significant reaffirmation of judicial consistency in Delta State. They argue that repeated confirmation of established land rights through the courts helps reduce conflict and strengthens confidence in the justice system.
The judgment may also discourage further litigation over settled territorial issues, allowing communities to focus on development, reconciliation, and governance.
