On March 16, 2024, Nigerian army troops stormed the Okuama community in Delta State after 17 soldiers were killed two days earlier, by unidentified persons.
In what appeared to be a reprisal attack, the troops destroyed everything in sight, causing widespread fear among the residents. Families were displaced, and businesses came to a standstill. The troops occupied the community until they withdrew on May 8.
News Central, a pan-African television station, hosted a crucial town hall meeting with the residents of Okuama community, where they shared their experiences.
One resident, Sulaiman Mustapha, originally from Zaria but now fully settled in Okuama, is still searching for his two wives and three children. He said, “Okuama has been a peaceful place. One Patrick in Okoloba has been tormenting us, killing people without being apprehended. How could you leave the murderer and then destroy our own community? My two wives and three children have remained missing.”
Patrick Akpobolokemi, was a former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) during the Goodluck Jonathan administration.
A community leader reported, “St. Peter’s Anglican Church, the only building still standing in Okuama, was left untouched. Every other structure, including schools and health centres, has been destroyed.”
The displaced community suffered untold hardship while hiding in the forest for safety. One resident, Juliet Okar, described how they were rendered homeless without access to food or medical assistance. She pleaded with Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to rebuild the community and stop the neighboring Okoloba from tormenting them.
Another victim, Jonah, said, “We plead with the Federal and State Governments to come to our aid. Please, we are exposed to hunger and suffering. We need help… please come to our aid.”
Activist Blessed Ughere, President of the Urhobo Progresse Union (UPU) Youth Wing, stated, “It is painful that our people suffered for crimes they know nothing about. Our people are bearing the consequences of something they know nothing about. From all indications, our people were set up by some who felt threatened by our progress. We migrated long ago to this place and have lived peacefully. No one is proud of taking a life, especially that of military men. We are peace-loving people. This is a case of a set-up against the Okuama people. The Governor has done his best; the Federal Government must help us.”
He called for peacebuilding initiatives to restore peace and the livelihood of residents in the community.