Traditional rulers in Delta State have pledged their assistance to security agencies in identifying those responsible for the killing of 17 officers and men of the Nigerian Army in the Okuama community.
The monarchs, who convened in Asaba, strongly condemned an unprovoked and barbaric attack by the Okuama Community that resulted in the officers’ deaths.
In a 5-point communique issued at the end of the meeting, the council’s Chairman, Major-General Felix Mujakpuero (Rtd), and Orhue 1, the Orodje of Okpe, extended their condolences to the immediate families of the slain officers, the Nigerian Army, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They prayed for the eternal rest of the departed souls.
The Royal Fathers urged the State Government to establish an independent investigative panel of inquiry to determine the immediate and underlying causes of the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba Communities.
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They also appealed to the Nigerian Army to conduct a thorough search for the perpetrators.
Furthermore, the Traditional Rulers called on the public to refrain from spreading falsehoods and unsubstantiated claims, as such actions could further destabilize the already fragile peace in the state.
The meeting was attended by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who briefed the monarchs on the security crisis between the warring communities.
Other attendees included the immediate past chairman of the Council, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor II, the First Vice Chairman and Pere of Akugbene Mien, SP Luke Kalanama VIII, and the Second Vice Chairman and Obi of Ubulu-Unor, Agbogodi Henry Kikachukwu I, among others.