Niger Delta Leaders Call For Withdrawal Of Army From Okuama And Other Communities In Delta And Bayelsa States

Niger Delta Leaders Call For Withdrawal Of Army From Okuama And Other Communities In Delta And Bayelsa States

Influential figures from the Niger Delta, including monarchs, retired security personnel, clerics, and activists, have urged the Federal Government to halt the military operation in Okuama, Ughelli South LGA, Delta State……READ ALSO Tinubu Meets Niger Delta Leaders, Promises Regular Consultations On Region’s Development

This appeal follows a violent incident on March 14, where 17 military officers were killed, leading to an increased military presence in the area.

The community leaders expressed concerns over potential further loss of life and escalating tensions in the oil-rich region. They advocate for the return of confiscated arms and ammunition by the assailants to the authorities.

Criticism was directed at the Army’s intervention in what was perceived as a local dispute. Instead, the leaders recommend the establishment of an independent commission to thoroughly investigate the events in Okuama and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The call extends beyond Okuama, with suggestions to reduce military deployments in other communities across Delta and Bayelsa states, aiming for a more peaceful and measured approach to conflict resolution in the Niger Delta.

Notable figures who spoke include the traditional ruler of Kabowei Kingdom in Delta State, HRM (Barr) Shadrach Peremobowei Erebulu, Aduo III; retired Wing Commander Patrick Biakpara; Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Bomadi, Most Rev. Hyacinth Oroko Egbebo; and environmentalist, Comrade Alagoa Morris.

Others include Iniruo Wills, the Co-convener of Embasara Foundation; ex-Ijaw Youth Council president, Eric Omare; and the former governorship candidate of Labour Party in Bayelsa State, Engr. Udengs Eradiri.

The Nigerian Army had since March 15 maintained a siege on Okuama and neighboring communities in search of the perpetrators after the attack. Villagers, including women and children, have fled Okuama and are stranded in forests without food.

Retired Air Force officer Wing Commander P.Y. Biakpara emphasized the importance of the military following rules of engagement and warned against careless deployment. He urged the return of confiscated weapons to avoid further escalation.

HRM (Barr) Shadrach Peremobowei Erebulu, Aduo III, stressed the need for both the youths involved in the incident and the military to act responsibly. He called on the Federal Government to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the events thoroughly.

Bishop Hyacinth Oroko Egbebo highlighted the underlying issues of underdevelopment and lack of social amenities in the region, calling for proactive government intervention to address grievances and foster peace.