The Urhobo Progress Union of America has vehemently denounced the distressing acts of violence and devastation that have unfolded in Okuama community, situated within the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria.
In a communiqué signed by the President of UPU America, Olorogun Prince (Dr.) Abel Dafiaghor, and the Director of Publicity, Mrs. Helen Irede-Mulbah, the organization expressed profound concern over the tragic narrative implicating the Nigerian military in the loss of lives and destruction of property within the community. This raises serious questions about the prescribed role and obligations of the nation’s armed forces.
According to UPU America, the events in Okuama, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and widespread destruction, starkly contradict the mandate entrusted to the military to safeguard lives and property.
The organization has called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation to uncover the truth behind these incidents, seeking justice for the fallen soldiers and innocent victims caught in the crossfire.
Furthermore, UPU America emphasized the pressing need for accountability and transparency in the aftermath of the recent turmoil in Okuama. It raised concerns regarding the delayed initiation of dialogue between conflicting parties, the questionable deployment of military forces in civil disputes purportedly aimed at restoring peace, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the discovery of victims’ bodies in locations far from the incident sites. Such discrepancies fuel suspicions of a premeditated scheme intended to foment unrest and chaos.
The loss of lives in this conflict, according to UPU America, is a profound tragedy, casting a pall over both the community and the nation as a whole. In this period of collective mourning, the organization advocates for a unified approach to addressing the underlying causes of the strife, promoting peace, and preventing future calamities.
UPU America stressed that the call for a thorough investigation is not merely about seeking justice for the deceased but is also a necessary step towards holding those responsible accountable for their actions. It emphasized the importance of a comprehensive investigation not only for the administration of justice but also for implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key areas highlighted for investigation include the delay in mediation efforts, the military’s involvement in civil matters, and the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the victims’ remains, all of which demand scrutiny and resolution.