- Reprieve came to the people yesterday after news filtered through that soldiers would be withdrawn from Okuama.
The Nigerian Army has announced the withdrawal of troops from the beleaguered Okuama community in Ughelli south local government area of Delta State.
Okuama, a sleepy fishing community, saw the peace and serenity enjoyed by its inhabitants truncated on the 14th of March when four Army officers and 13 soldiers were grisly murdered by gunmen.
After the killings, the locals fled the area into the forest over fear of reprisal attacks from the military, spending the weeks in the aftermath of incident in the treacherous and perilous jungle as the army laid siege on their enclave.
Those who were killed have been buried and the King that was detained has been released.
But reprieve came to the people yesterday after news filtered through that soldiers would be withdrawn from Okuama.
The people of Okuama can now commence the process of reintegration and rebuilding of their ravaged homes and community.
Governor Oborevwori Confirming the development at a media briefing on Wednesday.
He said the Army has agreed to withdraw its officers and men from Okuama, stating that 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 Taoreed Lagbaja on Monday, 6th of May, and as of today, 8th of May, 2024, the Military has withdrawn from Okuama.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
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