Edo and Kogi boundary dispute remains unresolved

The boundary dispute between Edo and Kogi states remains unresolved due to a combination of vanished physical landmarks, competing territorial claims, and community resistance, according to Adamu Adaji, Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC).

Adaji explained that while the boundary was originally defined under Legal Notice No. 126 of 1954, many of the physical features referenced in historical documents have disappeared. This loss of landmarks has forced experts to rely on subjective judgment when interpreting documents, leading to conflicting claims from both states.

Although the NBC produced an approved boundary line that was sanctioned by the Internal Boundary Committee, attempts at physical demarcation have been met with opposition. Local communities along the corridor have resisted contractors, arguing that the proposed line does not align with their understanding of the territory. The commission is currently engaging stakeholders to seek a broader agreement.

In a separate development, the NBC reported progress regarding the Abia-Anambra boundary, noting that 15 kilometres of a 23-kilometre stretch have already been agreed upon.