Ughelli South, Delta State — August 23, 2024 — Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has called on the Federal and Delta State Governments to immediately begin the process of rebuilding and resettling the displaced residents of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area. The community was devastated earlier this year following a violent conflict that led to the displacement of its indigenes.
Speaking on Thursday during a visit to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp at Ewu-Urhobo, where many Okuama residents have taken refuge, Senator Dafinone donated food items worth millions of Naira, including two live cows, 100 cartons of Indomie noodles, 20 cartons of Soya oil, and four bags of garri. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis and urged international donor agencies to assist in the efforts to rebuild and resettle the Okuama people.
“The situation at Okuama is an international humanitarian crisis that requires global efforts to rebuild and resettle the people,” Senator Dafinone stated.
The lawmaker also addressed the recent arrests of civilians in connection to the killing of soldiers near the Okuama community in March 2024, urging the Nigerian Army to respect the rights of those arrested. He insisted that they should be treated according to democratic principles and brought before a civil court to answer any allegations.
“The rights of the civilians arrested must be respected, and they should not be subjected to any form of abuse. Rather, they should be brought to a civil court to answer any allegations against them,” Dafinone asserted.
Senator Dafinone vowed to continue his efforts until the Okuama community is fully rebuilt and its residents are returned to their ancestral homes. He disclosed that his office has been in constant communication with the Federal Government and international agencies to seek further assistance for the displaced community.
“Aid to those at the camp and the rebuilding of Okuama are significant matters that need to be brought to the attention not only of the Delta Government but also of Nigerians and the global community as a whole,” he said.
Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp Management Committee, praised Senator Dafinone for his consistent support of the Okuama people during their time of crisis. He called on other well-meaning individuals to contribute to the ongoing efforts to rebuild the community and resettle its displaced residents.
“Senator, we can’t thank you enough for your involvement in the Okuama matter. Your efforts have been instrumental in trying to resolve this crisis,” Ogbodo stated.
The crisis in Okuama began after soldiers, reportedly on a peace mission, were killed near the community on March 14, 2024. The incident led to a military siege on the area, which was lifted on Tuesday following a promise by Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to ensure the safe return of displaced Okuama indigenes to their homes.