Residents of Okuma in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have taken to the bush following the invasion of the community by armed soldiers.
They were said to have invaded the community with their gunboats in the early hours of Monday, 9 September, 2024.
According to one of the community leaders, “As I speak, soldiers and some youths have stormed our community, shooting at anything in sight. They parked their boats at Okoloba and came on foot. The small tents we have built are being razed.”
“The soldiers came on land through Okoloba community after using drones to monitor the community on Sunday.”
“They stormed the community in four gunboats and 11 speedboats, killed three youths, and looted stores.”
The three youths reportedly killed were identified as Ojeh Asah, Uwhubunor James, and Enavwodo Peter.
The invaders also towed away a large granite canoe, a sand dredger, and generating sets.
“They took our generators, POS machines, and pumping machines. The dredger that is currently working in the community was taken along. They also went away with the granite boat that came to the community.”
“They destroyed houses. The garri we were processing at the premises of the Anglican Church was all destroyed,” he disclosed.
“Everyone is in disarray. We were forced to run into the bush. Before we came out from the bush, I couldn’t find my child. Why are we being treated in this manner?”
“Why will soldiers team up with our enemies to attack us? Our leaders were arrested weeks ago, and now they have come to sack the community,” he lamented.
“I am sure the soldiers are still searching for suspects and weapons. They are still not comfortable with our leaders who went to court to claim damages over their illegal arrest,” a resident suggested.
Residents called on the government to rescue the community from the invasion weeks after arresting Okuma community leaders.
Thegazellenews.com recalls that the Nigerian Army launched a reprisal attack on Okuma community in March 2024 following the murder of 17 military personnel by unknown gunmen near the community.
