Boundary Dispute: Khana LG Asserts Security Governance as Peace Efforts Continue
As the spate of crises resulting from land disputes in its domain skyrocketed in the past weeks, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State has resorted to finding sustainable solutions to resolving the underlying issues and restoring peace.
During a visit on Thursday, June 4, 2026 to Uegwere Bou-e Community in Khana LGA and Yeghe Community in Gokana LGA where lingering boundary dispute has festered over time, Chairman of Khana LGA, Thomas Bariere, announced that his administration will assume possession of the controversial boundary space while resolution efforts continue.
He explained that the assessment tour became necessary following reports of a fresh attack by suspected gunmen linked to the lingering boundary dispute between Uegwere Boue Community of Khana LGA and Yeghe Community of Gokana LGA, both in Ogoniland.
He condemned the violence, assuring residents of his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security, emphasizing that no responsible government would remain silent in the face of attacks on innocent residents as the safety of lives and property remains the top priority of his administration.
While expressing sympathy with affected families he urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies and community leaders to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
The LG Council Chairman recalled that a boundary resolution committee inaugurated during his first tenure had carried out consultations and field inspections involving representatives from both Khana and Gokana LGAs as well as the affected communities.
Moreover, the reinstated Council Chairman stated that the committee had clearly identified the boundary, but alleged that some individuals benefiting from the prolonged crisis had continued to undermine peace efforts.
He recommended that government should assume control of the contested land and establish a major security facility in the area to permanently address the dispute.
He noted that repeated clashes had negatively affected economic and social activities in the affected communities, with many residents now living in fear.
The chairman also dismissed criticisms over the timing of his visit, explaining that security agencies were immediately mobilised after reports of the attack emerged.
He disclosed that he had engaged the Chairman of Gokana Local Government Area and relevant security authorities to strengthen security operations around the troubled boundary corridor.
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts by the Khana Local Government administration to address security challenges and restore confidence among residents of both communities.
