The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, has strongly condemned the killing of military personnel on a peace and rescue mission in Okuama community, located in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. In a statement issued by Doubra Okotete, Omoghomi Olu-Derimon, and Luguard Izoukumor, the chairman, secretary, and information officer respectively, the IYC described the incident as barbaric and wicked.
While expressing disapproval of the military’s decision to burn down the entire Okuama community in response to the attack, the IYC urged the Delta State government to take immediate action to protect the lives of innocent people in the area. It emphasized that Okuama is an Urhobo-speaking community, not an Ijaw community, and called on Governor Oborevwori and Nigerian security agencies to investigate and apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous act.
Falana Urges End to Reprisal Attacks, Calls for Accountability
Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has called on the federal government to halt the reprisal attacks by soldiers of the Nigerian Army in the Okuama community of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State. Falana expressed concern over the destruction of villages and properties during the military invasion, urging the authorities to prevent further attacks.
Citing previous incidents of collective punishment, Falana emphasized the need for the military to refrain from targeting innocent civilians. He called on the Delta State Government to ensure that murder suspects and arsonists, both civilians and soldiers, are identified and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.
Falana extended condolences to the families of the slain officers and soldiers, stressing the importance of compensating their dependents. He also urged thorough investigation into the killings, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for all parties involved.
In conclusion, Falana commended the military for maintaining focus on its mandate of peacekeeping and urged collaboration between the government, local authorities, and community leaders to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous crime. He called for swift action by the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served without delay.