Nigerian Army withdraws from Okuama

The Nigerian Army has withdrawn its officers and men from Okuama, Delta State, following deliberations and collaborations between the State Government and Military Leadership.

According to a statement by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the withdrawal was confirmed during a phone conversation with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, on Monday, May 6, and was completed as of today, May 8.

The Governor expressed gratitude to the President, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Nigerian Army hierarchy for their understanding and cooperation, which led to an amicable resolution. He also thanked members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and other leaders who supported the state during the crisis.

The Governor assured the people of Delta State that his administration is committed to ensuring peace and security, as outlined in the MORE agenda. He also announced that the state government has set up an Internally Displaced Persons camp at Ewu to aid the rehabilitation of the affected community.

In a statement by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; "My Dear Good People of Delta State.

"I have the pleasure to announce to you that upon many deliberations and collaborations 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 Taoreed Lagbaja on Monday, 6th of May, and as at today, 8 of May, 2024, the Military have withdrawn from Okuama.  With this development, the people of Okuama can now safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding their homes.

"I want to express my deep and profound gratitude to Mr. President, the COAS, and the hierarchy of the Nigerian Army for their understanding and cooperation. In my engagements with them, they demonstrated the highest level of concern and care for the plight of the displaced persons. To God be the glory that we have achieved an amicable resolution.

"I also extend my gratitude to members of the National Assembly, distinguished Nigerians, our traditional rulers, and other leaders of thought who stood with us in our travails. Your words of encouragement and prayers are greatly appreciated.

"Let me assure all Deltans and residents in the state that this administration is irrevocably committed to enhanced peace and security in the state as contained in our MORE agenda. It is also pertinent to point out that matters of security are better handled with tact, wisdom, and patience; it is not meant to be a subject of daily media discuss as some would have wanted.

"As the people of Okuama start the process of returning to their homes, I pledge the commitment of the Delta State Government to make that process smooth and seamless. After a personal assessment of the community on 20th of April, 2024, we have since commenced setting up an Internally Displaced Persons camp at Ewu to serve as transition to aid their rehabilitation.  We shall render all the necessary assistance they need to enable them settle down quickly and joyfully in Okuama.

"It is my prayer and belief that NEVER AGAIN would Delta experience the kind of tragedy that happened in Okuama. Security, as we all know, is a shared responsibility. So, we will continue to count on the support and cooperation of every citizen to ensure that our state remains safe and peaceful.

"Once again, I commiserate with the families of victims of the Okuama incident.

"God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"God bless Delta State.

"God bless us all.

His Excellency,
Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori
Executive Governor, Delta State." Statement reads.