In a landmark move to end decades of hostilities and ensure sustainable peace, the Kingdoms of Emede and Igbide in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State have formally adopted a set of Bylaws for Everlasting Peace.
The historic agreement was reached during a joint peace meeting held on November 6, 2025, at the Royal Palace of the Ovie of Emede Kingdom, attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives from both sides.
This resolution marks a major step toward healing the long-standing wounds caused by recurring boundary disputes between the two Isoko communities.
Background
The conflict between Emede and Igbide has its roots in a decades-long land and boundary dispute, which has led to repeated outbreaks of violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property.
Although both communities took a traditional peace oath as far back as 1987, tensions periodically resurfaced, most notably in December 2020, when renewed clashes resulted in deaths, missing persons, and the burning of homes.
Subsequent interventions by the Isoko Development Union (IDU), traditional councils, and the Delta State Government have sought to restore peace. The latest meeting reflects the communities’ renewed determination to prioritize peace and development over conflict and division.
Highlights of the Newly Adopted Bylaws
The meeting between both kingdoms, attended by their Royal Fathers, Presidents General, and other traditional and community leaders, produced the following binding peace resolutions designed to guarantee lasting harmony:
- Prohibition of Armed Activities:
Farming and fishing with guns or sophisticated weapons near the Emede–Igbide boundary are strictly forbidden. Violators will be fined ₦500,000. - Ban on War Propaganda and Prophecy:
Spreading war propaganda, war-related dreams, or prophecies that incite fear or hostility is outlawed. Offenders will pay a ₦200,000 fine. - Personal Accountability for Crimes:
Any crime committed by individuals from either community will be treated as a personal issue, not as an act by the entire community. - Respect for Boundaries:
Farmers and fishermen must respect clearly defined boundaries. Trespassing without due permission must be reported immediately to the community leadership. - Prohibition of Rumour-Spreading:
The spreading of war-related rumours or propaganda, especially by Okada riders at Yanga Market Junction in Oleh, is strictly banned. Violators will be fined ₦200,000. - Hunting Restrictions:
Hunters from both communities must operate at least three kilometres away from the common boundary line.
Signatories
The peace bylaws were jointly signed by:
- His Royal Majesty, Ovie of Emede Kingdom
- His Royal Majesty, Ovie of Igbide Kingdom
- President General, Emede Kingdom
- President General, Igbide Kingdom
A New Chapter for Isoko Peace
The newly adopted bylaws signify a turning point in the relationship between Emede and Igbide. Both kingdoms have shown maturity, courage, and a shared desire to secure a future of peace, unity, and mutual respect.
This development has been widely commended across the Isoko Nation, with many seeing it as a model for peaceful conflict resolution and community reconciliation.
The people of Isoko now look forward to a lasting peace that will allow development, trade, and social interaction to flourish once again between Emede and Igbide — a peace that can truly be called everlasting.