The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • We’re hiding released kidnapped victim for safety, says family

    We’re hiding released kidnapped victim for safety, says family

    The family of a kidnapped victim, Mr. Benjamin Aduhor, has explained they decided he should go into hiding pending when all the issues relating to his release are settled. 

    According to the family, he is in hiding because his kidnappers are still holding on to his negotiator in exchange for more ransom.

    Aduhor, Managing Director of U2 Group of Companies, was abducted at Ugbomoro area in Uvwie Council area on Friday, September 11, 2024 around 11;10 pm by gunmen who killed one of his police escorts and shot indiscriminately for a while before he was whisked away.

    A ransom of N100m was placed on him but after serious negotiation, it was reduced. 

    Based on the collective efforts of family members, business associates and friends, he was released after spending 17 days with abductors.

    However a new twist to the incident occurred when the kidnappers decided to held back the negotiator, who volunteered to drop the ransom at the various locations he was directed. 

    They started making demands for more money for his release.

    Read Also: Whereabouts of kidnapped Benin ASUU zonal coordinator still unknown

    Making the stand of Aduhor’s family to hide their son known in a a statement to newsmen in Warri, Mr. Godwin Aduhor, the victim’s younger brother, said they took the decision in the best interest of their son and his family who had been traumatised by the incident. 

    He noted that the kidnappers had been contacting the family to make more money available for the release of the negotiator. 

    According to him: “We, the members of the Aduhor family have decided to take our son and brother, Benjamin Aduhor and his immediate family away from the public scene temporarily until the whole issue about the kidnapping incident had been resolved”.

    “We have been receiving series of calls and threats from his abductors to bring more money for the release of his negotiator that they are currently holding hostage and because of the trauma the entire family had passed through since the incident, we do not wish to take chances with his life and that of his immediate family again”.

    “He (Benjamin Aduhor) will continue to remain in the hiding pending when all these kidnapping issues had come to end and we pray that the kidnappers would allow reason to prevail and release the person they are currently holding without further delay and conditions.”

  • End of tenure: Rivers CTC chairman distributes vehicles, palliative to indigents

    End of tenure: Rivers CTC chairman distributes vehicles, palliative to indigents

    …commends Fubara for the opportunity
    …announces departure date

    The Caretaker Committee (CTC), chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, Evans Bipi said he would vacate office on October 7.

    Bipi spoke during a pathing ceremony he held for his committee members, in the locality yesterday.

    During the event, the CTyC chairman distributed vehicles to members of the clmmittee and bags of rice, other food items to indigent members from the 12 Wards of the LGA as his pathing gifts.

    The outgoing Committee chairman was among the 23 CTC members apointed by Governor Siminialayi Fubara after the forceful ousting of the elected Council men June 17.

    The committee memebers were appointed with the mandate to prepare ground for the conduct of Council election within three months.

    Counting three months from the inauguration date, the three months ended September 17.

    There are speculations however that the exercise might not hold on the scheduled date. The speculators believe that there is nothing on ground to show that the exercise would hold, plus the fsct that the APC and PDP have declared their intentions to boycott the polls.

    Read Also: Why Court’s order can’t stop Rivers LG poll, Beke-led APC writes INEC

    But the State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), has insisted that the poll would hold on Saturday, October 5, no matter what.

    Speaking earlier, Bipi scored his administration high on Economic Empowerment, Human Capital Development, Education, Electricity, provision of water and other basic amenities.

    He listed his achievements to include economic empowerment of over 800 persons from the rural populace with business grants, sustained distribution of food items to the poor and vulnerable people in the area throughout his three month tenure.

    It was meant to cushion widespread hunger occasioned by the prevailing economic hardship in the country, award of bursaries to over 400 indigent students of the LGA in higher institutions across the country, enrollment of over 100 applicants in free WAEC GCE.

    Other areas of intervention by the CTC Chairman include, improvement of power and water supply in Bolo, renovation/remodeling of Corpers Lodge in Bolo, restoration of electric power supply in Ele satellite community after 3years of blackout as well as ongoing renovation of the community Townhall, renovation and upgrade of existing public toilet facilities to modern standard as well as construction of new ones at river banks in the LGA to improve hygiene and public health.

    The Ogu/Bolo Council Boss also promised to flag-off the construction of Townhall in Owu-ogono satellite community before he leaves office.

    The feats were in line with the mandate given to the CTC chairmen by Siminialayi Fubara during their inauguration.

    He thanked Fubara for the opportunity given him to serve.

    He also thanked the people of Ogu/Bolo for their support while pledging his commitment to the well-being of the people and continuous progress of the LGA.

  • Nigeria @ 64: Ogoni group call for establishment of refineries/LNG plants for oil resumption

    Nigeria @ 64: Ogoni group call for establishment of refineries/LNG plants for oil resumption

    …sends a Save-Our -Soul to FG/security agents over alleged herdmen attacks in area

    Members of Ogoni Peoples Assembly (OPA), have suggested some workable measures to the Federal Government (FG), that if adopted would fast track oil resumption in Ogoniland.

    There is no gain saying that oil exploration was suspended in Ogoniland over 30 years ago following unresolved crisis between them and the International oil Company operating in the area, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).

    The issues were related to oil spill/ pollution and its consequential environmental degradation.

    The event led to the death of many persons in Ogoniland , including their Leaders, Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others.

    The barred Shel from further operations in the area.

    However efforts by succeeding governments to resume production in the erea have continued to hit brick wall.

    The people have insisted that thwi4 messed up environment must be cleaned up and that exploration in the area must be on their own terms.

    The OPA, an elitists group in a statement to mark Nigeria at 64 yesterday listed some measures that could end the lingering disagreements and pave way for oil resumption activities in the communities.

    In the test issued in Port Harcourt, the State capital, l yesterday, they noted that building of refinery facility in each of the six oil fields in the area, replication of Bonny Liquefied Natural Gas plant, establishment of Environment University in Ogoniland, among others would pacify the people to allow smooth and peaceful operations in the place.

    Read Also: Security forces uncover 66 illegal crude oil refineries

    The document was jiontly signed by the group Leader Rev. Probel Williams and the Secretary, Dr. Evidence Enoch.

    The people noted that Ogoni people are free minded and are open for meaningful discussion with the government.

    They condmned the situation where efforts are being made to re-enter the area through the backdoor, describing it as suspect and infantile.

    They said, “The clandestine and nocturnal approach to oil resumption is both suspect and infantile. What happens to conventional dislogue, negotiation, lobbying, round-table discussion, compensation, reconciliation, reintegration and restoration of the people, land and glory of Ogoni?” they queried.

    “Oil operability models and global best practices do exist as templates to adumbrate, modify, and adopt as fit-for-purpose, and this again after consideration of exoneration, and the demands of the Ogoni people as enshrined in the Ogoni Bill of Rights(OBR).

    “Consultations, engagements, negotiation, recounciliation, reintegration, and rehablitation of the lands and people of Ogoni are paramount.

    “Ogoni is indeed a gas-field with associated oll. What about a re-entry plan predicated on prior establishment of a world class Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Plant in Ogoni, University of Environment, and refinery in each of the six oilfields of Ogoni as sorry/ compensation gifts, for the years of neglect and devastation.

    “Whereas Ogoni is open to sincere conversations, the unlikely attempt at forceful usurpation and occupation will only deepen the already deep gulf of genocide and extermination of a people with a messianic covenant, an absolute impossibility”.

    Also the grpup decried the alleged invasion, attacks/killing of residents of the area by suspected Herdsmen rampaging the communities forests.

    The people in a Save-Our-Soul (SOS), document to the FG and Security agencies appealed for quick intervention to stame the tide as soon as possible, to avoid their resprting to self defence.

    “The recent attacks on Ogoni special areas of Agbeta in Eleme Local Government Area, Tai and Khana Council areas by suspected herdsmen are just too many. We therefore send a Save-our-soul(SOS), to the security agencies to rise to the occasion and come to our aid.

    “Ogoni, bleeds yet again, and cries for the right to live and let live. May we not be forced to seek self-help.”

    The people noted that Ogoni people are peaceful, law abiding and resolute. They urged the attackers to learn from history and retrace their steps from the further invasion, attacks on the people.

  • GCON honour on Akpabio excites APC elders in A’Ibom

    GCON honour on Akpabio excites APC elders in A’Ibom

    The Abak Elders Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has felicitated with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the GCON national award bestowed on him by President Bola Tinubu.

    In a statement by the forum’s chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Udosen, Atuekong Ofonmbuk Anaka, Joseph Ikpaisong and two other elders, the Forum said it was elated by the GCON award on Akpabio.

    According to the Forum, the award of the second most prestigious national award on the Senate President was a testament to Akpabio’s exceptional leadership, vision and dedication to the APC and the nation.

    The statement reads in parts, “We are thrilled to extend our warmest congratulations to you on the conferment of the prestigious national honor, Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger,on you by the President and Commander -in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu.

    “This well deserved recognition and honour is a tastement to your exceptional leadership, vision and dedication to our great party, the APC, and the nation 

    “Your selfless, unwavering commitment and inspiring stewardship have earned you this honour.We are proud to have you at the helm, guiding us towards excellence 

    Read Also: GCON on Akpabio well deserved, APC group

    “This national recognition not only honours your individual achievements but also reflects positively on our party’s values and mission.Your leadership has been a beacon of hope and motivation and we are grateful for the opportunity to work under your guidance 

    “Please accept our sincere appreciation and heartfelt congratulations on this remarkable achievement. May this honour inspire you to continue leading us to greater heights

    ‘The entire APC family in Abak local government area celebrates you and prays to God to continue to raise you to greater heights and bring you more breakthroughs and, recognitions and honours”.

  • Okpebholo’s victory is beginning of new dawn in Edo, says Edo federal lawmaker

    Okpebholo’s victory is beginning of new dawn in Edo, says Edo federal lawmaker

    The member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode federal constituency of Edo state in the House of Representatives, Chief. Billy Adesuwa Osawaru has said that the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo is the beginning of a new dawn for the people of Edo state. 

    The lawmaker also attributed the victory of the APC in the September 21 governorship election to team work in the part of all members of the party across the three Senatorial district of the state. 

    In an interview with The Nation, Osawaru describe the Governor-Elect and his Deputy as agents of development, pointing out that they have already put in place a concrate plan for the development of the state. 

    He said Senator Okpebholo was ready to hit the ground running once he is inaugurated, adding that all members of the party in the state were ready to collaborate with him to ensure a turn around of the state. 

    Responding to allegations of vote buying against the APC during the elections, he said: “I don’t know what they mean hy vote buying. What I know is that since I joined politics here in Nigeria, I have always seen coming out to vote and after election, we always see one side, especially the side that lost always talking about the winner buying votes. 

    “So, it’s still like a mirage to me when people start bringing such allegations that the side that won was involved in vote buying. All I can say is that we did election, people came and we were able to convince them to vote for our party and we won. 

    Read Also: Okpebholo and Sanwo-Olu

    “If you are coming up with such allegations, you should have proof and by now, you should make them public. If you see somebody being ten thousand naira, you should have a video or picture evidence to back it up and as an observer group, you know what to do. Take the necessary steps and take a decision whether you want to go to court or not instead of making allegations”. 

    He also dismissed allegations that the victory of the APC in Edo state amount to the return of godfatherism to the state, saying “if you go to somebody who has occupied an office before for advice, does that mean godfatherism? What that mean is collaboration to ensure development of the state”

    While insisting that the APC victory was as a result of hard work and team work, he said the party campaigned vigorously, going round the three senatorial zones to sell their candidate and his programme to the people of the state. 

    He said: “With the way things were and the governor making statements like Nigeria will burn, it’s a do or die, the APC really had no choice than to go all out to work for its victory. We all did what we had to do to ensure that we win that election. 

    “The federal government stood up and endured that there was a level playing field by deploying enough security to protect the voters and the result irrespective of who wonwon and because there was enough security, the better side won. 

    “The APC campaigned, we worked round the clock and the results are there to show you who worked the hardest. 

  • Niger Delta youths embark on solidarity walk for Tinubu

    Niger Delta youths embark on solidarity walk for Tinubu

    …commend President’s reforms, celebrate Nigeria at 64

    Youths under the auspices of the Coalition of Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders (CNDYS) on Independence Day troop out en masse to stage a solidarity walk for President Bola Tnubu and Nigeria’s unity.

    The solidarity walk which took place in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, saw the youths march four kilometres from Tombia roundabout to Peace Square on popular Yenagoa-Mbiama road singing solidarity songs in support of the President’s reforms and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Convener of the Coalition of the Niger Delta Youths Stakeholders, Apostle Bodmas Kemepadei, said they embarked on the solidarity march to drum up support for Tinubu’s reform agenda and to commend the President for appointing some illustrious Niger Delta sons and daughters into his cabinet.

    Kemepadei stated: “We are marching in solidarity for President Bola Tinubu to celebrate the independence and enjoin detractors to make sacrifices for the nation instead insinuating disunity by any form. We sue for peace and progress as we mark the 64th year of Nigeria’s existence.

    “We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has gone beyond heels to sustain Niger Delta sectors like the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Niger Delta Development Commission and other MDAs that have direct impacts on the Niger Delta people.  

    Read Also: Nigeria @64: Youth leader felicitates with Tinubu, Ribadu, security chiefs

    “Moreover, we commend the appointments of deserving Niger Delta persons into the Federal Executive Council of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other key sectors of government such as the appointment of Federal Head Civil Service, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (Minister of State Petroleum Resources), Chief. Nyesom Wike (Minister of FCT), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku ( MD/CEO, NDDC), Dr. Dennis Otuaro (Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme), Mr. Ebitimi Amgbare (MD, Niger Delta River Basin Authority) and a whole lot Niger Deltans in the cabinet including the Legislative Arm which a Niger Deltan is the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, among others.”

    He noted: “As we reflect on the sacrifices, hurdles and struggles for independence in our dear nation, we are solemn yet hopeful to celebrate today’s 64th independence of Nigeria’s existence and the positive narratives of President Tinubu-led Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    “As patriotic citizens, we  commend our founding fathers and mothers. Without them, there would be no modern Nigeria. From the fading embers of colonialism, their activism, dedication, and leadership gave life to the belief in Nigeria as a sovereign and independent nation.

    “Under the administration of President Tinubu, the travails we have endured as a nation shall strengthen us and no other nations or powers on this earth shall keep us from our rightful place and destiny.

    “As youths from the Niger Delta region, we acknowledge the yearnings and aspirations of our people who produce the golden eggs that the Nigerian economy banks on, but are in dire need of federal government presence in all sectors. 

    “We are confident in the working abilities of President Tinubu and his team working assiduously to rebuild the confidence of Nigerians and precisely the Niger Delta.” 

    Kemepadei said lauded the President for implementing a series of transformative policies and reforms designed to address the missteps of the past and set Nigeria to emerge as a formidable economic superpower in the near future. 

    He said despite global economic headwinds and the transitional pains accompanying some of the reforms, the President had remained focused in his efforts towards reviving the economy and returning the country to the path of prosperity and sustainable growth.

    “Noteworthy, we are optimistic in the reforms and reflect on this day 64th celebration of Nigeria’s Independence under the capable leadership of President Tinubu whom we have pledged our unalloyed support for his renewed Hope Agenda which will benefit the Niger Delta  and address impending issues affecting our citizens,” he stated.

  • GCON on Akpabio well deserved, APC group

    GCON on Akpabio well deserved, APC group

    A group, APC Media Network, has felicitated with the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, over his conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) by President Bola Tiinubu.

    In a statement on Tuesday, the group’s Director General, Otuekong Iniobong John, said that Akpabio deserves the second most prestigious national honour in the country in view of his many years of meritorious service to Akwa Ibom state and the nation. 

    Iniobong in the statement recalled the many achievements of Akpabio as governor of Akwa Ibom state, minister and currently as Senate President.

    He described Akpabio as a nationalist, a pillar of support to the Tinubu’s administration, adding that the APC Media Network was very proud to identify with him.

    The statement reads in parts: “As a group,we are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to our Grand Leader, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, on his well -deserved conferment of the prestigious honour of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger, the second highest national honour in the land, by the President and Commander -in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu.

    “This momentous honour is a tastement to his remarkable achievements and tireless contributions to nation building 

    ‘As Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State,he served the state so well and  recorded unparalleled legacies. He is the greatest of the great political leaders ever produced by the state.

    Read Also: Tinubu confers GCON honour on Akpabio, Kekere-ekun

    “As President of the 10th Senate and the Chairman of the National Assembly,he has demonstrated capacity, political sagacity and dexterity, wisdom, administrative acumen.

    “That is the reason we are witnessing a peaceful, stable and united Senate and he has been a stabilizing factor in this administration.

    “We are happy and proud to be associated with him and we must not fail to state that he’s our pride,hero, source of inspiration and motivation.

    “Finally, the APC Media Network appreciates President Bola Tinubu for recognizing the political pedigree and contributions of our Grand Leader to nation building and confering the prestigious honour on him and we are sure it will spur him to be more dedicated to the service of our fatherland”.

  • Lawmaker gives over 10,000 constituents free medical interventions in A’Ibom

    Lawmaker gives over 10,000 constituents free medical interventions in A’Ibom

    The lawmaker representing Eket/Onna/Esit-Eket/Ibeno federal constituency of Akwa Ibom state, Okpolupm Etteh, has offered free medical interventions to over 2,000 of his constituents.

    A total of 8,720 people benefitted from the outreach, which saw a stellar team of medical professionals performing 803 surgeries, including high-risk procedures such as Caesarean sections, myomectomies (fibroid removal), eye surgeries, exploratory laparotomies, treatment for perforated peptic ulcers, and ruptured appendices. 

    In addition to surgeries, no fewer than 3,691 people were consulted for various visual impairments, with 2,989 prescription lenses dispensed to improve their vision, conducted 8,839laboratory tests, offering comprehensive diagnostics and treatments for numerous health conditions. 

    The lawmaker also made money available for the immediate enrollment of 800 vulnerable constituents (200 from each local government area in the federal constituency into the State Health Insurance Scheme through AKSHIA.

    The 12-day outreach across multiple locations including the Cottage Hospital in Upenekang (Ibeno), the Cottage Hospital in Ekpene Obo (Esit Eket), the General Hospital in Awa (ONNA), and culminated at Immanuel General Hospital in Eket.

    Etteh said the gesture was aimed at complementing Governor Umo Eno’s policy thrust on healthcare and the United Nation’s Universal Healthcare for Akwa Ibom through the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA)

    Read Also:

    While reiterating his commitment to improving the well-being of his constituents in line with his ongoing efforts to provide accessible healthcare and uplift the lives of his people, the federal lawmaker thanked residents of the State for leveraging on the opportunity offered by the outreach.

    Speaking, one of the beneficiaries, Akaninyene Akpan, said “Hon. Etteh’s medical outreach has not only alleviated immediate medical concerns for thousands but has also built a foundation for improved healthcare access in the long term.

    “The success of this outreach exemplifies what people-centered governance looks like and strengthens Hon. Etteh’s reputation as a representative who is deeply committed to the welfare of his constituents.” 

    A community leader in Esit Eket during the flag-off, Chief Eyo Etteudo, said the outreach’s legacy will continue to echo in the lives of those who received treatment, and the broader community whose health and well-being have been uplifted through this life-changing initiative.

  • Nigeria @ 64: If we persevere, we will overcome current challenges – Dafinone

    Nigeria @ 64: If we persevere, we will overcome current challenges – Dafinone

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has charged Nigerians to be hopeful, noting that with perseverance, the nation will overcome its current challenges.

    Dafinone stated this in his goodwill message to the people of Delta Central and Nigerians as the country marks its 64th Independence Anniversary.

    The Delta Central lawmaker, while congratulating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his focused and visionary leadership, tasked Nigerians to continue to support the President at this trying time, noting that though some of the policies of the government appear as painful, if sustained, Nigeria will be better off for it.

    According to him: “As Nigeria proudly marks its 64th Independence Anniversary, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his focused and visionary leadership. His commitment to navigating our nation through its current challenges is commendable.

    “I also congratulate the resilient people of Delta Central and all Nigerians who continue to stand tall in the face of the current economic hardship.

    Read Also: Why state police can’t work now, by Sani Musa

    “At this juncture in our nation’s history, we are reminded of the need for perseverance. The road to recovery may seem long, and the present economic difficulties may weigh heavily on our people. However, as we reflect on the theme “If We Persevere, We Will Overcome,” I urge every Nigerian to stay the course. With President Tinubu’s reform-driven government and sound policies, we are gradually laying the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria.

    “While these economic challenges test our resolve as a people, we must remember that hardship is not permanent. With the right leadership and the right policies, soon we will emerge stronger and more united. I am confident that the measures being implemented by the Tinubu administration will soon yield positive results, bringing relief to millions of Nigerians who have borne the brunt of rising costs and inflation.

    “To my people in Delta Central, I understand the sacrifices you are making and the struggles many of you face daily. But I charge you to remain hopeful, for the dawn of a new era is near. We have persevered through times of uncertainty before, and together, with unity and determination, we will once again overcome these difficulties.

    “As we commemorate 64 years of nationhood, let us celebrate our shared history, our diversity, and the strength that lies within us as Nigerians. The journey may be tough, but the spirit of the Nigerian people is tougher. With steadfast leadership and the collective will of all citizens, I do not doubt that we will soon have cause to rejoice.

    “Long live Nigeria! Long live Delta Central!”

  • RMD donates live cow to Okuama IDPs, urges support for displaced families

    RMD donates live cow to Okuama IDPs, urges support for displaced families

    Veteran actor Hon. Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has donated a live cow to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Ewu-Okuama, in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

     The donation was made on Monday at the IDP camp in Ewu town, the traditional headquarters of the Ewu Kingdom.

    The residents of Okuama have been living in the IDP camp since May, following a military reprisal attack on their community. 

    The attack was in response to the killing of 17 military personnel by gunmen in the riverine area. The community was destroyed in the aftermath, displacing many families.

    While presenting the cow, RMD, represented by the Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee, Mr Abraham Ogbodo, expressed solidarity with the people of Okuama who were forced out of their homes due to the violent actions of unknown assailants. 

    Read Also: Nigeria@ 64, China @ 75: Spot the similarities, close the gap

    He condemned the killing of the military personnel and the subsequent destruction of the community by the soldiers, describing both events as tragic and regrettable.

    RMD, who hails from Aladja in Udu, extended heartfelt condolences to the people of Okuama, emphasising that as an Urhobo, he and his family share in their grief and loss. 

    He also commended the Delta State Government, under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for providing temporary shelter for the displaced persons and for initiating the reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and other public facilities.

    Speaking on behalf of RMD, Ogbodo stated: “Last Saturday, our illustrious son and award-winning actor sent N800,000 to purchase a live cow for the feeding of our people in the Okuama IDP camp. Fortunately, we were able to buy the cow for N750,000. RMD stands in solidarity with the displaced Okuama people who have been here since April. We are honoured to receive such support from our Urhobo brother.”

    Ogbodo, a former Editor of The Guardian newspaper, called on more well-meaning individuals, particularly those from the Urhobo community, to assist the IDPs with food and other essential needs. 

    He also announced the State Government plans to close the camp by December, as the displaced persons are expected to return to their ancestral homes in Okuama.

    He also urged the military and other security agencies to collaborate with the state government in its efforts to rebuilding destroyed Okuama community by ceasing military operations in the community to enable construction worker and other residents of the community to freely go about their business without fear of being attacked or molestation.

    He noted that the military has the right to go after suspected killers of its personnel but the action must be carried out in such a manner that it doesn’t lead to further crisis and trauma for the already traumatised people of Okuama.

    The IDP Camp Commandant, Mr. Austin Ohwofaria, also made a personal donation of food items and cash to help alleviate the suffering of the displaced families. 

    His contribution included two bags of garri and a cash gift of N30,000, which he presented to the camp management to support the feeding of the IDPs. Ohwofaria noted that although he is the camp commandant, he was moved to act to help reduce the hardships faced by the displaced persons.

    The donations from RMD and the camp commandant highlight the ongoing support for the displaced Okuama community as they await the rebuilding of their homes and eventual return.