By Sunday Apah
On Friday, the Delta State Government reiterated its serious commitment to addressing any issues that threaten the safety and security of its citizens and their properties.
During a meeting with protesters from the Ubulu-Okiti community in the Aniocha South Local Government Area at the Government House in Asaba, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, assured residents that their concerns would not be overlooked.
The demonstrators, who gathered peacefully and expressed their grievances through placards, were protesting against the actions of alleged land grabbers in their area.
Dr. Emu praised the protesters for their calm approach, promising that the government would thoroughly investigate the situation once the Commission of Enquiry submits its report.
“We have heard your concerns. The governor, in his wisdom, has convened a Commission of Enquiry through the State Security Council to investigate the allegations surrounding the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Ifechukwude Okonjo,” he stated.
He noted that the security council had summoned the Obi and requested that he refrain from involvement in the matter until the Commission concludes its findings.
“Fortunately, the Commission is nearing completion, and we anticipate that by January, they will have concluded their work. Subsequently, the government will review the recommendations carefully,” Dr. Emu added.
He assured the community that the inquiry would be led by a serving judge and comprised of esteemed individuals with no personal interests in the matter, emphasizing their integrity and independence.
“I urge you to remain patient for a maximum of two months, as we work to resolve this issue,” he said.
Dr. Emu acknowledged the allegations of police harassment from Zone 5 and assured the community that the government would investigate these claims.
He cautioned the protesters against taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing that such actions would not aid in their situation. “The government is dedicated to addressing this matter promptly and effectively,” he affirmed.
He further stressed the importance of not exacerbating the current difficulties faced by the people, expressing that, “Governor Oborevwori represents all segments of society: the wealthy, the less fortunate, and everyone in between.
As part of our MORE Agenda, fostering peace and security is a priority, and we cannot afford to ignore situations like this.”
Earlier, Ifechukwude Nwabuebo, the Youth President of Ubulu-Okiti, highlighted the ongoing struggle faced by the community. “For over two years, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and his family have encroached upon our community land, grading and selling it without our consent. When we attempt to protest, we are met with violence and intimidation, and our community is suffering.”
He recounted a recent incident in which community members were reportedly assaulted and detained, pleading with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene on behalf of those affected.
“We have endured this for too long and earnestly ask the government to address this matter. The Okonjo family must respect our autonomy as we do not belong to Ogwashi-Uku clan but are distinct communities deserving of our rights,” Nwabuebo concluded.
