The Nigerian Army has withdrawn troops from the troubled Okuama community in Ughelli south local government area of Delta State.
With this withdrawal, the people of Okuama could now safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding their homes and community.
Recall members of the National Assembly, other distinguished Nigerians, traditional rulers and other leaders of thought pleaded with the Federal Government and the military authority to allow freedom and peace to prevail during the Okuama crisis.
Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori also paid a personal assessment to the community on 20th of April, 2024 and since commenced setting up of an Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp at Ewu to serve as transition to aid their rehabilitation.
Confirming the development, Governor Oborevwori expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the military high command on the withdrawal.
“My dear good people of Delta state, 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 Taoreed Lagbaja on Monday, 6th of May, and as at today, 8th of May, 2024, the military have withdrawn from Okuama.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 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,” Oborevwori said.
He 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.
He added, “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.
“We shall render all the necessary assistance they need to enable them settle down quickly and joyfully in Okuama,” the governor said.
He prayed that Delta State would never “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,” the governor stated.