Okuama: Urhobo Traditional Rulers, UPU Break Silence, Demand Establishment Of Independent Truth Commission, Sue For Peace

The Executive Council of Ukokor Ivier Urhobo (Council of Urhobo Traditional Rulers) and the Executive Council of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), have expressed deep concern over the recent crisis between Okuama Community of Ughelli South LGA and Okoloba Community of Bomadi LGA, calling on the warring parties to sheathe their sword and allow thorough investigation into the dastardly act that led to the killing of military personnel.

This was contained in a joint communique issued after a crucial meeting held on Tuesday in Effurun, Delta State and signed by the chairman of Council of Urhobo Traditional Rulers, HRM (Dr.) Emmanuel E. Sideso, Abe 1, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, and Chief Ese Gam Owe, President of UPU. Chief Ejiro Ughwujabo, the President of UPU in United Kingdom was also present at the meeting.

The communique highlighted the pain felt by the Urhobo nation over the tragic bloodshed and destruction of Okuama Community, including the killing of seventeen military personnel and the subsequent reprisal mission by the Nigerian Army.

The leaders expressed their condolences to the families affected by the incident, both the soldiers and the innocent residents of Okuama Community.

In order to prevent future occurrences and find a lasting solution, the leaders called on all parties involved to cease violence and engage in peaceful dialogue.

They also urged the Delta State Government to establish an Independent Truth Commission to investigate the root causes of the crisis and the frequent disagreements between Urhobo and Ijaw communities on the Forcados Rivers.

Additionally, they appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to encourage the Nigerian Army to participate in a round-table discussion initiated by the Delta State Government.

The communique, also called for collaboration between Urhobo and Ijaw traditional rulers to achieve sustainable peace in the area.

The Urhobo leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peace and their long-standing peaceful coexistence with their Ijaw neighbours.

Furthermore, the Urhobo Traditional Rulers and Urhobo Progress Union’s call for peace and investigation into the Okuama/Okoloba crisis with the aim to restore harmony and prevent further bloodshed in the state.