By Ken Afor
In the wake of escalating violence in Okuama Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area, in Delta State, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has issued a fervent plea for peace.
The crisis, sparked by a land dispute with neighboring Okoloba in Bomadi Local Government Area, has tragically claimed lives and displaced countless families.
In a statement released on Saturday, Senator Dafinone called for calm following the reported deaths of 15 soldiers and some civilians, as well as the destruction of property.
With tensions running high, he urged all parties involved to lay down their weapons and prioritize dialogue for the sake of humanity.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Senator Dafinone called on both the State and Federal Government to intervene swiftly.
He emphasized the need for an independent panel to investigate the root causes of the conflict and ensure accountability for those responsible for the loss of civilian and military lives.
He said: “I want to appeal for calm by the waring factions in the unfortunate incident that occurred in Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday and Friday leading to the needless death of about 18 persons including soldiers.
“The federal government must as a matter of urgency set up a high power independent panel to investigate the remote causes of this crisis, in order to bring whoever that may be involved in the killing of Nigerian civilians and soldiers to be brought to book.”
Expressing condolences to the military for their fallen comrades, Senator Dafinone urged restraint and adherence to rules of engagement in their interactions with civilians.
He stressed the importance of avoiding further bloodshed and preventing the crisis from escalating into a full-blown humanitarian disaster.
Additionally, Senator Dafinone appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide vital relief assistance to the displaced residents of Okuama, many of whom are now sheltering in surrounding areas.
He added: “I wish to appeal to the authority of the Nigerian army to act discreetly in this situation, that they should not allow their emotions take better part of their professional judgement by toning down their operations and observed the rules of engagement while dealing with civilians at Okuama.
“I also wish to call on our people in Okuama to shun any act of violence that could further escalate this crisis, which could have been avoided if both parties allowed reason to prevail.
“The National Emergency Management Agency, should also reach out and provide relief materials to the people of Okuama, many of whom have been rendered homeless and are now living in surrounding bushes.”
