Okuama: Niger Delta Groups Decline Participation In Military Board Of Inquiry

The Urhobo Progress Union Youth Wing Worldwide and the Urhobo Youth Leaders Association have both declined participation in the Military Board of Inquiry regarding the incident at Okuama.

In a statement signed by activist Ughere Blessed, President of the UPU Youth Wing Worldwide, and Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo, President of the Urhobo Youth Leaders Association, stated that they have chosen to decline the invitation to join the inquiry team through an invitation sent by Chief Edwin Uzor, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Delta State on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution.

They cited the involvement of the Nigerian Army in the matter as a reason for their decision, believing that the Army, being a party to the issue, would not be able to conduct an unbiased investigation or adjudication.

The statement further emphasises the principle that “no one should be a judge in their case.” Therefore, they have decided not to participate in the Military Board of Inquiry investigating the tragic events of March 17 in Okuama, Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, until specific conditions are met.

“More so, when the Army has already taken a position by declaring eight (8) persons wanted without inviting them for proper investigation. This fundamental principle of natural justice prohibits biased entities from presiding over cases where they have vested interests.

“It is our considered view that Okuama people are not subject to military laws. Therefore, a military-led inquiry lacks the legal authority to investigate civilians’ matters.

“We demand that the culprits responsible for the gruesome killings be apprehended and handed over to the police for prosecution. We dissociate ourselves from these individuals, as it is not in our character as Urhobo people to take lives, let alone that of the Army who have been in the forefront of keeping this nation secure and safe.

“We call for the unconditional release of the Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo kingdom to his people. The Army should cease the harassment of Urhobo neighbouring communities to Okuama.

“Just yesterday the Army invaded Olota community, arrested community leaders and set houses ablaze and Okuama community is still under siege while a panel of inquiry is ongoing.

“The composition of the panel raises concerns about bias and impartiality. The military’s previous declarations and actions, including declaring Okuama community leaders as ‘wanted’ in various media outlets, undermine the credibility of the Board of Inquiry.

“Conflicting statements from the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS General Christopher Musa, also erode trust in the military’s ability to conduct a fair and unbiased investigation. The Army initially blamed the incident on oil bunkering activities but later implicated both the Okuama and Okoloba communities.

“We also call upon the Delta State government to intervene and facilitate the safe return of Okuama residents to their homes, provide necessary humanitarian assistance, and address the root causes of the conflict,” it said.