Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced the complete withdrawal of the military from the Okuama community in the state.
Oborevwori made the announcement on his Facebook account and reiterated it during a press conference at the Government House in Asaba, the state capital on Wednesday.
He emphasized that the withdrawal of the military signifies that the people of Okuama can now safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding.
This development signalled a significant development following the tragic events of March 14, 2024. On that day, 17 military personnel were brutally murdered in the community, leading to a military takeover and subsequent desertion of the area by residents.
Following the tragic killing of 17 Army personnel in March, the military took control of the Okuama community, leading to the displacement of many residents who fled the area.
To facilitate the smooth resettlement of the displaced residents, the governor revealed that an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp has been set up by his administration.
This move aims to support the affected individuals as they return and rebuild their lives and community.
The tragic incident on March 14 resulted in the loss of 17 military personnel, including the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, two majors, one captain, and 12 other personnel, who were laid to rest at the Military Cemetery in Abuja.
With the military withdrawal, it is expected that the people of Okuama will gradually return home, hopeful for a new beginning and the opportunity to rebuild their community.
The governor wrote, “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 Taoreed Lagbaja on Monday, 6th of May, and as at today, 8th of May, 2024, the military has withdrawn from Okuama.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 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 discourse 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 the 20th of April, 2024, we have since commenced setting up an Internally Displaced Persons camp at Ewu to serve as a transition to aid their rehabilitation.
“We shall render all the necessary assistance they need to enable them to 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 the victims of the Okuama incident. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. God bless Delta State. God bless us all,” Oborevwori added.
