One year after, Delta senator asks FG to rebuild Okuama, release detainees

Ede Dafinone, the senator representing Delta central, has appealed to the federal government to rebuild the Okuama community and release detainees who have been held without trial.

On March 14, 2024, 17 soldiers of the Nigerian Army on a peace mission to Okuama in Bomadi LGA of Delta state were surrounded by some community youths and killed.

After the incident, the military launched an offensive on the Okuama community in search of the killers of the 17 soldiers.

The military operation left the community in ruins, with homes destroyed and families displaced.

In April 2024, the troops of the 63 brigade of the Nigerian Army reportedly arrested three leaders of the Olota community in Ughelli South LGA of Delta, in connection with the death of the 17 officers.

However, in a statement issued on Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of the incident, Dafinone called for the unconditional release of detained community leaders or their trial in an open court.

“As the world marks the first anniversary of the Okuama military onslaught on March 14, I join the voices calling for justice, accountability, and urgent intervention to alleviate the suffering of the displaced Okuama people,” he said.

“The events of that tragic day left an entire community in ruins, with homes destroyed and families forced into unimaginable hardship.

“One year later, the Nigerian government must take decisive action to ensure these innocent citizens are not abandoned and that justice is served.”

The senator said urgent efforts must be made to restore housing, schools, healthcare facilities, and roads, “enabling the community to rebuild their lives and reclaim their dignity”.

“The government’s duty is not only to protect but also to rehabilitate communities affected by conflicts—Okuama should be no exception,” he added.

Dafinone also condemned the continued detention of four Urhobo citizens by the military since August 2024.

He said seven months without trial constitutes a gross violation of their fundamental rights and demanded their immediate release or a fair and transparent trial.

“As a representative of Delta Central Senatorial District, I remain committed to championing the cause of the Okuama people,” he said.

“I call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the international community to stand in solidarity with Okuama in demanding justice, rehabilitation, and the protection of fundamental rights.

“It is time for the government to act—restore Okuama, release the detainees, and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.”