Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Army over the withdrawal of troops from the troubled Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.
Oborevwori, at a media briefing in Asaba, the Delta State capital, on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, said with the withdrawal of the troops, the people of Okuama could now safely return to their homes and begin the process of reintegration and rebuilding their homes and community.
The governor said: “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 Taoreed Lagbaja, on Monday, 6th of May, and as at today, 8th of May, 2024, the military has withdrawn from Okuama.
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“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 Chief of Army Staff, 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.”
Governor Oborevwori also commended members of the National Assembly, other Nigerians, traditional rulers, and other leaders who stood with the state throughout the Okuama saga.
He added: “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.”
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