UDU/Nigeria: The prolonged leadership crisis in Okpaka Community, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, has come to an end, as warring factions agreed to set aside their differences and work towards peaceful coexistence.
The peace accord was brokered on Wednesday, September 18, by the Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Hon. Vincent Oyibode, during a peace meeting held at Brooklyn Hall, located within the Council Secretariat in Otor-Udu, Delta State. The meeting aimed to address the conflict that had caused significant damage to properties and strained community relations.
Oyibode urged the factions to prioritize peace for the progress of Okpaka, noting that development can only take place in a peaceful environment. He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in rebuilding the community, which has suffered due to the leadership tussle.
Following lengthy discussions, both sides agreed to a peace plan that included several key resolutions:
Maintenance of peace and unity in Okpaka. Upholding the leadership structure constituted by Council Chairman Hon. Jite, Recognition of Friday Farah as President General, Austin Emakpo as Youth Leader, and David Miller as Secretary, Commencement of reconstruction efforts to compensate for losses suffered during the dispute, Receipt of financial support from the council to aid in community rebuilding, Immediate cessation of all legal actions related to the conflict.
Expressing satisfaction with the outcome, Oyibode commended the factions for their willingness to compromise. “This resolution marks a new era of peace and development for Okpaka,” he said.
Pa John Emuosiuko, the ‘Okapako Orere’ (Eldest man in the community), lauded the chairman’s efforts in facilitating the peace process. “The chairman’s initiative has brought hope back to our community,” Emuosiuko remarked.
The peace meeting was attended by several key figures, including Hon. Henry Apunu, Leader of the Legislative Arm; Hon. Andrew Gbise, Secretary of the Local Government; Bulus Musa, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Ovwian Police Station, and other council executives.
With this resolution, Oyibode reiterated that Okpaka is now poised for meaningful development and growth, as peace returns to the troubled community.
