Asaba, March 14, 2025 – Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, is reportedly under intense pressure to distance himself from the Okuama community crisis in Ughelli south local government area of the State, as political forces and ethnic interests continue to complicate efforts to resolve the situation.
The crisis in Okuama, Ughelli South LGA, erupted on March 14, 2024, when a deadly confrontation led to the killing of 17 Nigerian soldiers.
The military swiftly retaliated, burning down the community, arresting several residents, and leaving many displaced.
Among the casualties was the President-General of Okuama, Pa James Oghoroko, whose tragic death further fueled tensions.
Political and Ethnic Tensions Escalate
Governor Oborevwori is facing mounting pressure from Ijaw political leaders who are demanding a specific course of action regarding the crisis.
Sources indicate that these leaders are pushing the governor to disengage from efforts to rebuild or reintegrate the Okuama community, citing the severity of the military’s response and the ongoing tensions between Okuama and Okoloba, a neighboring Ijaw community in Bomadi local government area of the State.
A concerned stakeholder who recently communicated with a senator involved in the matter expressed frustration, stating:
“We just have to continue praying for our governor. That man is going through serious stress in the hands of the Ijaws because of the Okuama matter.”
This sentiment reflects the political balancing act Oborevwori is struggling to maintain, as different interest groups attempt to influence his stance on the crisis.
Calls for Leadership and Action
Critics argue that Governor Oborevwori has not demonstrated enough resolve in handling the Okuama crisis.
They insist that as the Chief Security Officer of the state, he should be taking a firmer stand in engaging both the Nigerian Army and the Federal Government to secure the release of Okuama indigenes still in military custody.
“Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is not a serious Governor. The Ijaws are not the owners of Delta State to tell him what to do about Okuama.
“He is not powerful enough to solve the issue involving the Army and the Okoloba people.
“He needs to take a stand and liaise with President Tinubu to release our people in military custody,” a concerned community leader stated.
The Need for a Lasting Resolution
While all sides acknowledge the sensitivity of the Okuama crisis, there is growing frustration over the lack of a decisive resolution.
Community leaders and activists continue to call for justice, reconstruction of Okuama, and the safe return of displaced residents.
The question remains: Will Governor Oborevwori rise above political pressure to ensure justice and peace, or will he succumb to forces urging him to abandon Okuama entirely?
The coming weeks will determine the fate of a community still reeling from tragedy.
