The Director-General of Nigeria's National Boundary Commission, Adamu Adaji, has stated that the boundary dispute between Edo and Kogi states remains unresolved. According to Adaji, the dispute is primarily due to vanished landmarks, competing claims, and resistance from communities along the border. Despite efforts to resolve the issue, the commission has faced significant challenges in accurately tracing the boundary.
Adaji revealed that the Edo-Kogi boundary was defined under Legal Notice No. 126 of 1954, which established the boundary between the Northern and Western regions. However, some physical features referenced in the document have disappeared over time, making it difficult for experts to accurately determine the boundary. This has led to subjective judgments and competing claims from both states.
The National Boundary Commission has made progress on other boundary disputes, including the Abia-Anambra boundary. According to Adaji, 15 kilometers of the 23-kilometer stretch have already been agreed upon. However, the Edo-Kogi boundary dispute remains a significant challenge. Adaji stated that technical experts have attempted to interpret historical documents, but the disappearance of landmarks has introduced subjective judgment into determining the boundary.
Adaji recalled efforts dating back to 2006 to establish the boundary between Edo and Kogi states. The commission considered the claims of both states and eventually produced a line regarded as the boundary between them. The proposed boundary was subsequently approved by the Internal Boundary Committee, paving the way for its physical demarcation.
Despite the approved boundary line, Adaji said the exercise encountered resistance from communities along the corridor. This resistance has hindered the physical demarcation of the boundary, allowing the dispute to persist. Adaji emphasized that the commission is committed to resolving the dispute through technical and administrative efforts.
The boundary dispute between Edo and Kogi states has significant implications for the region. The National Boundary Commission's efforts to resolve the dispute are crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the area. Adaji's statement highlights the challenges faced by the commission in resolving boundary disputes, particularly in cases where landmarks have vanished or been altered over time.
The National Boundary Commission will continue to engage with stakeholders and work towards a peaceful resolution of the Edo-Kogi boundary dispute. Adaji's statement emphasizes the importance of cooperation and dialogue in resolving boundary disputes. The commission's progress on other boundary disputes, such as the Abia-Anambra boundary, demonstrates its commitment to resolving these issues.
Key points
- The Edo-Kogi boundary dispute remains unresolved due to vanished landmarks, competing claims, and community resistance.
- The National Boundary Commission has made progress on other boundary disputes, including the Abia-Anambra boundary.
- The commission's efforts to resolve the dispute are crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
