Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has commended President Bola Tinubu and the military high command for withdrawing troops from Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state..
At a media briefing, Governor Oborevwori stated that with the troop withdrawal, the people of Okuama could now safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding their homes and communities.
The Governor said, “My Dear Good People of Delta State, I have the pleasure to announce to you that, after much deliberation and collaboration 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 Taoreed Lagbaja, on Monday, May 6, and the military has withdrawn from Okuama as of today, May 8, 2024.
“With this development, Okuama residents can safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding.
“I would like to thank Mr. President, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Nigerian Army’s hierarchy for their understanding and cooperation.
“During my interactions with them, they demonstrated the greatest concern and care for the plight of displaced people. To God be the glory, we reached an amicable agreement.”
Governor Oborevwori also commended members of the National Assembly, other distinguished Nigerians, traditional rulers, and thought leaders who supported the state during the Okuama saga.
He stated, “Let me assure all Deltans and residents of the state that this administration is irrevocably committed to enhancing peace and security in the state, as outlined in our MORE agenda.
“It is also important to note that security issues should be handled with tact, wisdom, and patience; they are not intended to be a topic of daily media discourse, as some would have preferred.
“As the people of Okuama begin the process of returning to their homes, I pledge the Delta State Government’s commitment to making the process smooth and seamless.
“After conducting a personal assessment of the community on April 20, 2024, we have since begun establishing an Internally Displaced Persons camp at Ewu to serve as a transitional facility to aid in their rehabilitation. We will provide them with all of the assistance they require so that they can settle in Okuama quickly and successfully.
“It is my prayer and belief that Delta will never again experience the tragedy that occurred in Okuama. We all know that security is a shared responsibility. So we will continue to rely on every citizen’s support and cooperation to keep our state safe and peaceful.
“I once again express my condolences to the families of the Okuama victims.”