Senator Ede Dafinone, representing the Delta Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has called on both the Federal and Delta State Governments to promptly initiate the process of rebuilding and resettling the displaced residents of Okuama, a community in Ughelli South Local Government Area.
In his statement, Senator Dafinone emphasized that civilians arrested in connection with the recent killings of soldiers in Okuama should be treated with respect and not subjected to abuse. He also appealed to international donor agencies to assist the affected community, describing the situation in Okuama as an international humanitarian crisis that requires global intervention for rebuilding and resettlement.
On Thursday, Senator Dafinone donated food items worth millions of Naira to the Okuama people currently residing at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Ewu-Urhobo. The donation included two live cows, 100 cartons of Indomie noodles, 20 cartons of soy oil, and four bags of Garri, among other provisions.
Accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Adelabu Bodjor, and other All Progressives Congress (APC) members, Dafinone also urged the Nigerian Army to adhere to democratic principles when dealing with Okuama leaders who were reportedly arrested earlier in the week. He stressed that the arrested civilians’ rights must be upheld and that they should face any allegations in civil court rather than through abuse.
Dafinone pledged to continue his efforts until Okuama is rebuilt and its residents are returned to their ancestral homes. “Since my last visit, my office has been in contact with the Federal Government and international agencies to secure assistance. Rebuilding Okuama and aiding those in the camp are urgent issues that need attention not only from the Delta Government but from Nigerians and the global community as a whole,” he said.
Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp Management Committee, praised Senator Dafinone for his continued support and involvement in the crisis. Ogbodo highlighted Dafinone’s proactive efforts in addressing the Okuama situation and called on other individuals to contribute to the ongoing rebuilding and resettlement efforts.
It is worth noting that the military had laid siege to Okuama following the reported killing of soldiers near the community on March 14, 2024. The military withdrew its forces on Tuesday after Governor Sheriff Oborevwori assured the displaced Okuama residents of a safe return to their homes.
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