Soldiers of the Nigerian military have finally withdrawn from Okuama community in Ewu Kingdom of Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State after laying siege to the troubled community for over 50 days.
The military occupation of the Urhobo community followed the senseless killing of 17 officers and soldiers, including the commanding officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion in Bomadi by unknown gunmen around the creeks of Okuama community.
The gruesome murder of the operatives led to a reprisal attack by soldiers which saw the once bubbling fishing community totally destroyed and razed by the personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, except an Anglican Church building.
Residents and indigenes of the community who fled for safety also had all their means of livelihood including boats, fishing nets and markets destroyed by agents of the State.
NIGER DELTA TODAY Online learnt that the military started withdrawing their men from Okuama community on Tuesday following the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, confirmed the withdrawal of the military men from the community in a statement on Wednesday.
The statement personally signed by the governor urged the people of deserted Okuama community to return home so that rebuilding of the community can begin.
Governor Oborevwori, who commended President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff for handling the ugly incident with tact and wisdom, assured that his administration remains committed to providing peace and security in the state.
Oborevwori said, “I have the pleasure to announce to you that upon many deliberations and collaborations between the State Government and the Military Leadership, the Nigerian Army has agreed to withdraw its Officers and men from Okuama.
“I spoke with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja on Monday, 6th of May, and as at today, 8 of May, 2024, the Military have withdrawn from Okuama.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 COAS, 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.
“I also extend my gratitude to members of the National Assembly, distinguished Nigerians, our traditional rulers, and other leaders of thought who stood with us in our travails. Your words of encouragement and prayers are greatly appreciated.
“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. It is also pertinent to point out that matters of security are better handled with tact, wisdom, and patience; it is not meant to be a subject of daily media discuss as some would have wanted.
“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 experiences 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.”
