Commitment to Rebuilding
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori promises rehabilitation of Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area after the military invasion’s destruction. During a meeting at the Government House in Asaba on Friday, Oborevwori reassured stakeholders of his commitment to rebuilding Okuama. Additionally, he addressed members of the IDP Camp Management Committee, affirming his administration’s plan to collaborate with other stakeholders.
Crisis and Aftermath
The murder of 17 army officers and soldiers on a peace mission to Okuama on March 14 triggered the crisis. Consequently, the army retaliated by ransacking the town, leaving it in ruins. In response to the displacement, Governor Oborevwori urged affected individuals to relocate to the IDP camp at Ewu Grammar School.
Residents’ Decision to Stay
Despite the governor’s appeal, many Okuama residents stayed to rebuild their town rather than move to the IDP camp. They believed that staying would allow them to protect their harvests from being plundered by people from neighbouring areas.
Remaining in the community, they argued, would help them maintain control over their resources. They preferred this to the uncertainty of relocating. This decision highlighted their resilience and determination to restore their town independently.
This decision underscored the residents’ resilience and determination to restore their community independently.
Authorities’ Perspective
Governor Oborevwori emphasized that relocating to the IDP camp would allow authorities to profile affected individuals and address health needs. He reassured the community that the government remains dedicated to championing peace and development in Okuama. Moreover, he encouraged the indigenous people to uphold values that would positively impact their ancestral homes.
Community Leaders’ Support
Pastor Edewor Egedegbe thanked the governor and assured efforts to convince Okuama residents to relocate to the IDP camp. Additionally, he appreciated including two Okuama indigenes in the IDP committee, believing it would help accurately identify affected individuals.
IDP Camp Management Committee Chairman Abraham Ogbodo described the meeting with the governor as highly productive. Moreover, he affirmed that the government had concluded plans to build a new health centre and school in Okuama. Furthermore, Ogbodo emphasized the camp’s readiness to accommodate up to 1,700 people, urging those affected to move to the camp for their health and social needs.
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