A high-powered delegation of Urhobo traditional rulers under the umbrella of Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo has met with the Minister of Defence in Abuja as part of renewed efforts to secure a lasting resolution to the lingering Okuama crisis in Delta State.
The delegation was led by the Ovie of Umiaghwa-Abraka Kingdom, His Royal Majesty (AVM) Lucky Ochuko Ararile (Rtd), and comprised the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, as well as retired Air Vice Marshal Sonni Gberevbie.
The meeting comes in the wake of a recent Federal High Court ruling ordering the unconditional release of the Okuama detainees from military custody, a development widely seen as a significant step toward resolving the crisis that has gripped the Urhobo nation for months.
Sources familiar with the engagement said the visit was aimed at fostering dialogue with the Federal Government, facilitating compliance with the court’s judgment and charting a peaceful path toward bringing the Okuama crisis to a close.
The monarchs were also said to have reiterated the Urhobo nation’s commitment to peace, justice and stability, while stressing the need for actions that would promote reconciliation and restore confidence among affected communities.
The Okuama crisis, which followed the killing of military personnel in the community, triggered a major security operation that led to arrests, detentions and widespread concern among stakeholders across Delta State.
The recent court order directing the release of the detainees has renewed hopes that the prolonged impasse may soon be resolved through dialogue and adherence to the rule of law.
