By Akpokona Omafuaire, UGHELLI

OKUAMA – THE Ukoko r’ Ivie r’ Urhobo, (Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers) and Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, leadership Thursday stormed demolished Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State in solidarity and donated relief materials.

They call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to assist the Delta State Government in rebuilding of the Okuama community.

The delegation led by HRM (Dr.) Emmanuel E. Sideso, Abe 1, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom had HRM, Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Chairman, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Okukeren III, Ovie of Arhavwarien Kingdom, HRM Okorefe I, Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom, HRM Owahwa II, Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, Barr Ese Gam, UPU President General and others in attendance.

The Urhobo leaders donated rice, beans, garri, vegetable oil, indomie and toiletries and other items worth several millions of Naira.

According to Abe 1, “Today, we stand before you with heavy hearts as we witness the plight of our brothers and sisters from the Okuama community who have found themselves in the midst of unimaginable hardship and sufferings due to the unfortunate circumstances that have befallen them.

“As representatives of the Urhobo Nation, it is our solemn duty to extend a helping hand and show our unwavering support to those in need at this particular time.

“We have gathered here today not as Rulers or Leaders, but as compassionate human beings who are united in our desire to alleviate the sufferings of our fellow Urhobo kindreds. The Okuama people have faced immense challenges and have shown incredible resilience in the face of adversity.

“Their strength and courage inspire us to come together and offer whatever assistance we can provide.

“As we enter the IDP CAMP occupied by the Okuama people, we bring some relief materials such as food and water, but also a message of hope, solidarity, and compassion. We understand the importance of standing together in times of crisis, regardless of our differences or background.

“Let us remember that we are all part of the same human family, bound by the ties of empathy and compassion. Let us extend a helping hand to those in need, not out of charity, but out of adeep sense of shared humanity and responsibility.

“We need not refresh our memories of the unfortunate incident that chased Okuama people from their ANCESTRAL HOME into the bush and lately into the Internally Displace Persons (IDP) CAMP in Ewu-Urhobo in Ughelli South LGA of Delta State.

“We use this opportunity to appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State and his government for the establishment of this IDP CAMP to bring succor to the sufferings of the people of Okuama.

“We shall leave this IDP CAMP and proceed straight to Okuama village for on-the-spot assessment of the situation there. “Seeing is believing” is a popular adage of our people. We urge the Delta State Government to do more, particularly in the 3-

“It is obvious that the people will be more relaxed and forget the trauma of the past early, when they are on their HOMELAND. The IDP CAMP is a stop-gap arrangement and it should remain so. We, once again restate our call to the Federal Government of Nigeria to assist the Delta State Government in rebuilding of the Okuama community.

“Meanwhile, we will not forget in a hurry the gallant 17 Nigerian Army Officers/men who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident of Okuama Okoloba imbroglio. While we continue to commiserate with their families and loved ones they left behind, we pray continuously for the repose of their souls, in Jesus name. Amen! May SOULS of all the departed Rest in Peace, AMEN.

“Our visit today serve as a symbol of unity, love, and support for our brothers and sisters in the Okuama community. Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for all Nigerians, where no one is left behind or forgotten.”

The delegation was received with dancing and singing from joyous women in Okuama in appreciation of the love shown by the visit.

The kings and UPU leaders expressed shock at the level of destruction visited on Okuama community but assured that they will remain standing and supporting them to resettle.

Chief Belvis Adugbo on behalf of the Okuama people thanked the Urhobo kings and leaders, he appealed for support on how to rebuild the community.