Leaders in Delta State have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on behalf of the villagers who have been displaced as a result of the crisis in the Okuama community to let them return to their communities and lives, News About Nigeria reports.
They made this plea on Monday, stating that most people of Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, fled their homes about 12 days ago, following the siege of the community by the Nigerian Army over the killing of 17 soldiers.
Former Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG, Udom Ekpoudom, and the Otota (prime minister) of the ancient Olomu Kingdom in Delta State, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, made this appeal to President Bola Tinubu, pleading with him to allow the people to return home and pick up the pieces of their lives.
Akpomudje noted that nobody is happy with what happened but maintained that it was wrong that innocent people who are not connected are made to suffer, adding that they are still human beings, no matter their level.
He also noted that the President should prevail on the Nigerian Army for restraint, while efforts should be made to fish out those responsible for the act. It is, of course, condemnable by any reasonable person.
“Nobody is happy with what happened but that should not mean that innocent people who are not connected, be made to suffer, they are still human beings, no matter their level.
“There must be a positive and urgent step by President Bola Tinubu and his government to ensure that Okuama villagers return to their communities and live normal lives. It is not easy to live outside where you have lived all your life, where they sleep; and how you feed. Therefore, the government must act fast.” He stated.
Speaking also, retired police DIG, Udom Ekpoudom, advised the federal government to give traditional rulers more powers to control the residents in their domains.
He also urged the federal government to deal with the issue of cultism, stating that cultists are usually under the influence of hard drugs such as hemp, and feel that they are above the law, therefore committing all manner of atrocities.
He further noted that the best way to resolve the crisis is for traditional rulers to take control of the youth.
