Okuama killings: Oborevwori warns monarchs against ‘shielding perpetrators’

Sheriff Oborevwori, governor of Delta, has cautioned traditional rulers in the state against shielding suspects linked with the killing of 17 army personnel in Okuama community, Ughelli south LGA of the state.

Oborevwori gave the warning when he addressed traditional rulers at the state traditional rulers’ council secretariat in Asaba, the state capital.

On March 14, some personnel of the Nigerian Army — comprising a lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers — were killed by youths while on a peace mission in Okuama.

The death of the soldiers sparked nationwide outrage.

The governor described the attack as “barbaric, inhumane and unacceptable”.

He said the killing of the soldiers is not what Deltans are about, vowing to “fish out” the perpetrators.

Oborevwori emphasised that no kingdom should protect the perpetrators of a criminal act, stating that Delta is governed by the principles of law and human decency.

“We cannot tolerate that. It has never happened in this state; to kill one lt. colonel, two majors, one captain and 13 soldiers. We need to fish out those involved. Do not hide or shield anybody. Unless you connived with the killers of the soldiers,” he said.

“I have briefed you and make sure that you fish them out from your kingdoms. If any traditional ruler shields a criminal, that traditional ruler is inviting trouble.

“We did not bargain for this evil act but for peace. I don’t want crisis. I have also received information that two other villages are boiling to fight. They should not fight, we want peace in all our communities.”

The governor also asked residents in the state to be law abiding, as the government continues to take measures to protect lives and property.

He said the government would prevent troublemakers from deterring investors.

Felix Mujakperuo, chair of the Delta state council of traditional rulers, said the monarchs are on the same page with the governor, for the peace and security of the state.

He called for a judicial panel to investigate the immediate and remote cause of the crisis.