The Welfare Officer of the Urhobo Progress Union, (UPU) Youth Wing Worldwide, Comrade Ese Simon Agbobore has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to halt the military operation in Okuama community, Ughelli South local government area of Delta State over the recent killing of some soldiers.
Commiserating with Nigeria Army, families of the four officers and 13 soldiers killed recently at Okuama in Delta State, Agbobore appealed to the Federal Government to prevail on the Nigeria Army to seize fire of their reprisal attack on innocent lives.
According to him, ” Okuama community is on the verge of been wiped out if the current military operation is not stopped because of the crime committed by some persons which is alien to the Urhobo people.
“Let me on behalf of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Youth Wing Worldwide, as the National Welfare Officer say my sincere condolences to Nigeria Army, families of our falling heroes and the families of innocent lives lost in Okuama community, while I express my sincere plea to the Federal Government of Nigeria to stop every military operation going in Okuama community.”
While calling for a thorough external investigation into the matter, he urged the military to be cautious of their operations in bringing only the perpetuators to book and protect the right of innocent and devoid of any form of inhuman treatment on the indigene.
“Okuama community in Ughelli South and Okoloba community in Bomadi Local Government Areas of Delta State, are located at the bank of Forcados and both communities have been lived peacefully and have been law abiding.
The Federal government and the military should consider the welfare of every displaced persons in Okuama to halt the offensive operation in other to restore peace.
“In this moment of grief and uncertainty, let us not succumb to division or vengeance. Instead, let us uphold the values of empathy, justice, and unity that define us as a people of one Nation. Together, we can navigate through this dark hour, emerging stronger and more resilient than before.
“It is crucial that the government does not neglect the welfare of the Okuama people in the aftermath of this tragedy. Families have been displaced, lives shattered, and communities left reeling in shock and grief.
“As a voice of the Urhobo youth, I implore the authorities to provide the necessary support and assistance to those affected, ensuring that their basic needs are met, and their dignity upheld during these trying times.
“As the Welfare Officer of the UPU Youth Wing Worldwide, I cannot stress enough the importance of prioritizing the welfare of the Okuama community.
“While investigations into the incident are underway, it is paramount that justice is served and the perpetrators are brought to account for their actions.
“However, this should not overshadow the immediate imperative of attending to the welfare of the affected families and the broader community. The government must demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law while also displaying compassion and empathy towards those who have suffered loss and displacement.
“Proactive measures should be taken to address the immediate needs of those impacted, offering not only material support but also psychological and emotional assistance to help them cope with their loss and displacement.
“Let us stand together in solidarity with the Okuama community, ensuring that they receive the care, support, and justice they rightfully deserve.” Agbobore said.