Residents displaced from Okuama-Ewu in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, are calling for urgent intervention from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, requesting the establishment of an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp. For over a month, these residents have been living in forests to escape military actions following the March 14 incident where 17 military personnel were killed.
During a recent visit to the devastated community, Governor Oborevwori reassured residents, stating plans for rehabilitation and safe return. He emphasized that the military was only pursuing those involved in the incident. Following his visit, the governor expressed on social media his commitment to rebuilding the community and rehabilitating its innocent citizens.
Community leaders, speaking anonymously due to safety concerns, responded to the governor’s visit by urging rapid action to facilitate the military's withdrawal and allow displaced residents to return home safely. They highlighted the dire conditions in the forest, where people suffer from lack of food and medical care, exacerbating the plight of those injured.
The situation has prompted acts of solidarity and assistance from the diaspora community. Michael Egi, a US-based member of the Urhobo Historical Society, has contributed a variety of relief materials including food, toiletries, and medical supplies to support the displaced residents of Okuama-Ewu.
Meanwhile, tension remains high in neighboring communities amid ongoing military operations aimed at apprehending those responsible for the deaths of the soldiers. The arrest of local leaders and residents in communities such as Okpokonou has fueled fears of broader reprisals. These actions have raised concerns about human rights and the welfare of those caught in the crossfire of military and insurgent activities.
Residents and community leaders continue to plead for a peaceful resolution and the safe return of all those displaced by this conflict. The call for an IDP camp is growing more desperate as the community seeks a semblance of normalcy amidst ongoing unrest.
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