Obe-Apata Is Part of Ilaje Kingdom, Not Ijaw, Declares Youth Congress
The Obe-Apata Ilaje Community Youth Congress insists that Obe-Apata is an integral part of Ugbo Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, rejecting recent claims linking it to Ijaw ownership as misleading. The statement, signed by the group’s chairman and spokesman, highlights four founding quarters—Odudu (Odusola), Ogunfolami, Odo (Ogbaro) and Aroko—as proof of Ilaje heritage. It notes that “Apata” derives from the Ilaje word for a lagoon habitat, underlining the community’s linguistic and cultural identity. As evidence, the congress cites a pre-1998 primary school, electoral and administrative records, and public facilities such as a customary court and health centre established by Ilaje people. These records place Obe-Apata in Ugbo Ward (now Ward 4) of Ilaje LGA, while neighbouring Opu-Akpata falls under Ese-Odo. Calling for peaceful dialogue, the youth body appeals to federal and state authorities, local councils and traditional rulers to respect historical facts and official boundaries. It warns that misinformation risks sowing unnecessary tension among riverine communities.
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