The Delta State High Court has delivered a landmark judgment affirming His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II is the sole legal custodian of all lands within the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
The ruling, delivered by Honourable Justice H.O. Akpotohwo on June 23, 2025, in Suit No: 0/50/2021, declared that any land sale or development within Ogwashi-Uku carried out without the Obi’s express consent is null and void.
The court granted a perpetual injunction restraining individuals and groups from selling, developing, or advertising lands behind the Delta State Polytechnic and across Edo Ogwashi-Uku without the Obi’s approval. It also awarded ₦20 million in general damages against the defendants for trespass and unauthorised dealings on communal land. According to the court, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku remains “the overlord, manager, and custodian” of all lands in the kingdom, subject to the Land Use Act of 1978.
The case had been instituted over the unauthorised acquisition and sale of lands around the Delta State Polytechnic and surrounding areas. Court sources revealed that a key defendant, PWAN Group, withdrew its claim after initial proceedings, prompting the court to proceed against other parties. The court's judgment not only nullifies such transactions but reaffirms the traditional and legal authority of the Obi-in-Council over Ogwashi-Uku lands.
Speaking after the judgment, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “This judgment sends a strong message to land grabbers and developers attempting to circumvent our traditional institutions. The Obi holds Ogwashi-Uku land in trust for the people,” he urged all individuals and companies to seek proper consent before engaging in any land transactions.
He warned that the Palace would continue to pursue legal action against anyone dealing in Ogwashi-Uku land without authorisation, describing such activities as an assault on the community’s heritage.
Observers note that the ruling could have far-reaching implications for land dealings not just in Ogwashi-Uku, but in neighbouring communities such as Azagba Ogwashi, Aboh Ogwashi, Olloh Ogwashi, and Isah Ogwashi, where rising demand for property has attracted speculative developers.
Court-sanctioned recovery of the affected lands has already commenced, with support from court bailiffs and officers of the Nigeria Police, following formal approval by the presiding judge. Local sources describe the operation as extensive, given the widespread illegal sales previously carried out in the now-protected areas.
