Urging the government for swift action, the leadership of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers has emphasized the immediate need for the rehabilitation of the Okuama ancestral community in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. This initiative is essential to accelerate the return of the displaced residents to their rural homestead.
In the wake of the destruction of the Okuama community by the military, which occurred after the killing of 17 officers and soldiers on a peace mission by unidentified gunmen on March 14, 2024, efforts have been made to shelter the displaced indigenes at the Ewu-Urhobo internally displaced person camp while plans for the community’s rehabilitation are put in place.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has assured the reconstruction of the devastated community and subsequent rehabilitation of its inhabitants. Contracts have already been awarded for the reconstruction of primary healthcare facilities and six classroom blocks for primary and secondary schools in Okuama community.
The Governor also expressed that the displaced Okuama indigenes currently residing at the Ewu-Okuama IDP camp will soon be able to return home, with peace gradually being restored in the area.
During a meeting with the leadership of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers and the Urhobo Progress Union Worldwide at the Government House, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori praised the support and cooperation of the traditional rulers and emphasized their role in providing valuable advice and guidance.
Additionally, the Urhobo Social Club of Nigeria has appealed to the Delta State government to expedite the rebuilding process of the vandalized Okuama community to facilitate the prompt return of the displaced indigenes to their ancestral land.
During a visit to the Ewu-Urhobo IDP camp to donate relief materials, the Urhobo Social Club of Nigeria, Lagos, led by Chief Wilson Okpubigho, extended their support by providing essential items like rice, garri, and a cow to the camp inhabitants.
Echoing the sentiment, Hon. Roland Oyibo, a Peoples Democratic Party chieftain in Ughelli North LGA, encouraged political figures, clerics, and churches within the Urhobo community to follow the example set by the Council of Urhobo Traditional Rulers and UPU leadership in supporting the displaced Okuama residents in their time of need.