Urhobo Monarchs Demand Release of Detained Okuama Leaders

The Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council, also known as Ukoko R’ Ivie Urhobo, has demanded the immediate release of Okuama community leaders who have been detained by the Nigerian Army for more than a year. The council made this appeal while distributing food items to the affected community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The donation, led by the council’s chairman—Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso—included 500 yam tubers, 15 bags of rice and five rams to aid the community’s recovery from a recent army invasion. The invasion was a reprisal attack following the killing of army personnel in the community. The council stressed the importance of sustained peace in Okuama and neighboring villages.

Present at the ceremony were other traditional rulers, including vice‑chairman HRM Solomon Onojeta and spokesman HRM Obukowho Whiskey Udurhie I. The council acknowledged the hardships endured by Okuama residents and expressed hope that the festive season would bring joy to them and to other Urhobo families.

In response to a request from the Okuama President General, the council assured that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education would supply desks and chairs for a newly built school in the community. The Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM Obukowho Whiskey Udurhie I, urged Okuama representatives to distribute the donated items fairly and to maintain peace.

President General of Okuama, Mr. Emmanuel Okrikira, thanked the Urhobo traditional rulers for their support and pledged to ensure that everyone in the community receives aid. He also appealed to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to expedite the release of the detained leaders and to provide the necessary school furniture.

The council’s intervention highlights the need for continued support and peace‑building efforts in Okuama. Its demand for the release of the detained leaders, coupled with the food donation, demonstrates a commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region, with the community’s recovery and well‑being remaining a top priority.