OKUAMA: DOPF Extends Condolences, Stresses need for prioritizing citizen rights and Dialogue
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Army and the Okuama Community following recent devastating incidents that claimed numerous lives.
In a statement released on Sunday, March 23, 2024, signed by Chairman Emmanuel Ochonogor Enebeli and Secretary Shedrack Onitsha, the Forum expressed profound sadness over the tragic turn of events.
The statement highlighted the loss of 17 military personnel to heinous attacks, sparking reprisal violence that tragically engulfed civilians. The DOPF emphasized the shared humanity uniting us all and called for swift justice for the fallen heroes.
Advocating for upholding established rules of engagement and due judicial processes, particularly within democratic frameworks, the DOPF stressed the need for prioritizing citizen rights and safety in military operations, given Nigeria’s absence of widespread conflict.
Urging immediate dialogue between government authorities and the military, the DOPF called for humanitarian access to the Okuama Community to assess and provide aid to those affected. The organization echoed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for a comprehensive investigation into the root causes of the Okuama conflict, emphasizing the importance of probing alleged cases of extra-judicial killings during military operations.
In concluding its statement, the DOPF expressed solidarity with the military and the Okuama Community, calling for unity in upholding principles of integrity, accountability, and respect for human rights. The Forum reaffirmed a collective commitment to the nation’s betterment amidst this trying period.
