By Kenneth Orusi
The intervention of Senators Ned Nwoko, Ede Dafinone, and Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, alongside Rt. Hon. Francis Waive, in the Okuama crisis has drawn widespread commendation from various quarters. Their roles in addressing the violence that erupted in the Delta community have been recognized as crucial in de-escalating tensions and pushing for justice.
The lawmakers, representing different constituencies in Delta State, played active roles in legislative and diplomatic efforts following the tragic killing of soldiers and the subsequent military invasion of Okuama. Their advocacy for peace, justice, and rehabilitation of affected communities has been widely acknowledged.
Legislative Actions and Advocacy
Senator Nwoko, representing Delta North, was among the first to call for a thorough investigation into the killings, urging authorities to ensure that innocent civilians were not caught in the aftermath. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes security without violating human rights.
Senator Dafinone (Delta Central) and Senator Onowakpo (Delta South) similarly pushed for the protection of civilians and sought assurances from security agencies that due process would be followed. Their calls for transparency in the military’s response were seen as an attempt to prevent further humanitarian crises.
In April 2024, a significant development unfolded in Delta State involving the detention and subsequent release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, the monarch of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area. The monarch’s detention was linked to the tragic Okuama incident, where 17 military personnel lost their lives. Following the incident, the Nigerian Army declared King Ikolo and seven others wanted.
Demonstrating his commitment to due process, the monarch voluntarily surrendered to the Delta State Police Command, which subsequently handed him over to military authorities for investigation. His detention prompted swift action from Delta State’s political representatives, with Senators Dafinone, Nwoko, and Onowakpo-Thomas engaging with military authorities to advocate for his release.
Their concerted efforts culminated in a meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, and other military officials. On April 19, 2024, the Nigerian Army released King Ikolo into the custody of Senator Dafinone, who acted as a surety, ensuring the monarch’s availability for any further investigations. The release was formalized at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, where the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that while preliminary investigations had not conclusively established the monarch’s culpability, the inquiry remained ongoing.
The traditional ruler of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, expressed gratitude to Senator Ned Nwoko for his pivotal role in securing the release of an Okuama leader who had been detained for several months. In a statement issued on December 29, 2024, the monarch commended Senator Nwoko for his unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns of the Okuama people and his tireless efforts in promoting peace and fostering reconciliation.
“We are grateful for the timely intervention and support of Senator Nwoko, which led to the release of one of the community leaders,” the monarch said. “His actions have not only brought relief to Okuama community but have also reaffirmed our faith in collaborative leadership.”
Rt. Hon. Francis Waive, representing the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency, took his concerns to the House of Representatives, advocating for urgent government intervention in resettling displaced residents. He also pressed for security reforms to prevent a recurrence of such violence.
As investigations into the Okuama crisis continue, the role of these lawmakers will remain critical. Advocacy for justice, reconstruction efforts, and long-term peacebuilding measures will determine the effectiveness of their intervention. While their efforts have been noted, expectations remain high for concrete results.
Kenneth Orusi, is the Publisher and Editor-in-chief of The Story and Chairman, ICC, Delta NUJ.
