By Seyi Babalola
The Nigerian Army has withdrawn troops from the Okuama hamlet in Delta State’s Ughelli South Local Government Area.
It should be recalled that the people were living in peace and security until March 14th, when four Army commanders and 13 troops were slain. They were not only slain; their bodies were disfigured.
The deaths caused the residents of the neighborhood to evacuate for fear of being assaulted.
Those dead have been buried, and the imprisoned King has been freed.
The Okuama people could now begin the process of reintegrating and reconstructing their homes and communities.
Confirming the development, Governor Oborevwori, at a media briefing, said the Army has agreed to withdraw its officers and men from Okuama.
According to him, matters of security were better handled with tact, wisdom and patience.
“I spoke with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja on Monday, 6th of May, and as of today, 8th of May, 2024, the Military has withdrawn from Okuama.
“With this development, the people of Okuama can now safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding their homes.
“I want to express my deep and profound gratitude to Mr. President, the Chief of Army Staff, and the hierarchy of the Nigerian Army for their understanding and cooperation.
“In my engagements with them, they demonstrated the highest level of concern and care for the plight of the displaced persons. To God be the glory that we have achieved an amicable resolution,” the Governor said.
Governor Oborevwori also commended members of the National Assembly, other distinguished Nigerians, traditional rulers and other leaders of thought who stood with the state throughout the Okuama saga.
“Let me assure all Deltans and residents in the state that this administration is irrevocably committed to enhanced peace and security in the state as contained in our MORE agenda.
“As the people of Okuama start the process of returning to their homes, I pledge the commitment of the Delta State government to make that process smooth and seamless.
“After a personal assessment of the community on 20th of April, 2024, we have since commenced setting up an Internally Displaced Persons Camp at Ewu to serve as transition to aid their rehabilitation. We shall render all the necessary assistance they need to enable them settle down quickly and joyfully in Okuama.
“It is my prayer and belief that never again would Delta experience the kind of tragedy that happened in Okuama.
“Security, as we all know, is a shared responsibility. So, we will continue to count on the support and cooperation of every citizen to ensure that our state remains safe and peaceful.
“Once again, I commiserate with the families of victims of the Okuama incident,” he said.
