Send Relief Materials To Okuama Urgently- PANDEF

The Delta State branch of The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency send relief materials to the people of Okuama community in Delta State which is in ruins after the tragic events of March 2024, when men of the Nigerian army invaded it with devastating consequences.

This was contained In a statement signed by The Chairman of the group, Prince Maikpobi Okareme who expressed deep concern over the continued suffering of the people of Okuama, who have been displaced for nearly a year after the Nigerian Army’s onslaught.

It would be recalled that Okuama Community was in the news in March 2024 when 17 Nigerian military personnel were killed while reportedly on a peace mission. The bizarre incident drew widespread condemnation, the military responded by razing every building in the community to the ground, leaving its inhabitants homeless. President Bola Tinubu had directed the Army to investigate the attack and ensure that justice was done, but PANDEF bemoans the lack of significant action towards resolving the crisis:

“The leaders of the community who were detained for interrogation are still languishing in military custody without trial. The refugee situation and humanitarian crisis have not been adequately addressed by either the Federal or Delta State government.” Okareme stated.

PANDEF calls on the Federal Government to expedite its investigation and bring justice to the people especially those unjustly detained while calling on the Delta State Government to prioritize the rebuilding of Okuama, restoring essential infrastructure, education, and socio-economic activities that have been shattered.

“The Delta State and Federal Governments have a duty to rebuild Okuama and restore peace to the area. Suspected community leaders who have been detained for months should either be released or tried in a court of law. The people cannot continue to live as refugees in their own land,” PANDEF stated.

The group calls on individuals, philanthropists, humanitarian organizations and religious bodies to come to the aid of the people of Okuama community with food, clothing and other necessary materials.