Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom Presents Findings to Army Probe Amid Controversy …..Condemns Killings, Urges Unrestricted Access to Okuama
WARRI/Nigeria: In the midst of ongoing criticism surrounding the Board of Inquiry setup by General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, to investigate the tragic killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama on March 14, 2024, Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom has submitted its report.
Represented by Godwin Shaguolo, Esq., the council for Ewu-Urhobo kingdom presented the findings, which underscored the community’s condemnation of the “gruesome murder” of 17 soldiers on a peace mission to Okuama.
The report also extended condolences to the families of both the slain officers and innocent civilians caught in the reprisal.
The document elucidated the longstanding peace between Okuama and neighboring communities until recent land disputes escalated tensions. It detailed an SOS letter sent to government officials prior to the tragic incident, outlining concerns and seeking intervention.
Notably, the report clarified that Okuama is not involved in illegal activities like oil bunkering.
However, the report clarified that Ewu-Urhobo leadership couldn’t speak for Okuama regarding the military mission, expressing concern over the lack of access to surviving community members since the military intervention.
The report appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, and Delta State authorities for unrestricted community access, emphasizing the importance of Okuama’s narrative reaching relevant authorities and the public.
Accompanying the report were crucial documents, including the initial SOS letter and newspaper publications highlighting the community’s plight.
The submission comes amid widespread criticism of the inquiry’s composition, with calls from legal experts and notable figures to dissolve the probe and establish a judicial inquiry for impartial investigation.
