Khana LG Chairman Makes Bold Statements in Land Disputes Rocking Sogho, Yae Communities

According to a press release signed by the Director of Press and Public Communications, Khana Local Government Council, Barry Neemana, on Friday, June 26, 2026, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Thomas Bariere, has intervened simultaneously in two cases of land disputes in Sogho and Yae Communities.

The Sogho community crisis followed an alleged sale of approximately 99 hectares of land to an NGO, ‘Initiative for the Improvement of Rural Community Schools (IIRCS)’ by one Barikpoa Serekara, who claimed that the land belongs to his family.

However, the leadership and people of Sogho Community, led by Menebua Sogho, Chief Frank Nam (JP), had rejected the claim, insisting that no single family in Sogho owns such an expanse of land and, therefore, lacks the authority to sell it. The disagreement has since generated serious tension within the community and posed a threat to the peace and security of the area.

The Press Release stated that a peace meeting involving all parties was convened by the Council Chairman, Bariere Thomas, during which he assured them his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice, fairness, and lasting resolution to the matter.

He also urged aggrieved parties to remain law-abiding, calm, and refrain from actions capable of escalating the situation, reiterating that the LG authority will do everything within its powers to preserve peace and protect lives and property.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Gbenemene of NyoKhana Kingdom, HRM King Suanu T. Y. Baridam, directed both the seller and the buyer to maintain the status quo by suspending every activity on the disputed land pending the outcome of the government’s intervention and final resolution.

In a related development, the Chairman also addressed another land dispute in Yae Community arising from the lease of a parcel of land known as ‘Wiidae’ by the Paramount Ruler of Yae, Chief Legbara Alex Aabu.

The lease arrangement is said to have generated widespread dissatisfaction among members of the community and was gradually creating tension capable of disrupting public peace.

To forestall a breakdown of law and order, Bariere constituted a five-member Peace and Reconciliation Committee to thoroughly examine the issues and recommend an amicable resolution.

The committee members include Chief Frank Nam (JP) – Chairman; Chief Akpobari Nwiyor – Vice Chairman; Chief Barilugbene Sampson – Secretary; Chief Lewa Kenneth – Member; and Hon. Bright Nkue – Member.

The committee has the mandate to engage all stakeholders, investigate the issues surrounding the disputed lease, and submit recommendations that will promote justice, unity, and lasting peace in Yae Community.