The residents of Otulu Ogwashi-Uku have extended their gratitude to the Executive Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, for establishing a Commission of Inquiry to address issues surrounding land grabbing, including concerns tied to their community.
The Commission recently concluded its deliberations, and community members have urged the public to disregard misleading reports painting Otulu Ogwashi-Uku in a negative light. According to the community, the alleged security crisis is a deliberate scheme orchestrated by vested interests, including senior government officials, to seize land and undermine the community's traditional leadership.
A History of Peace Disrupted by Ulterior Motives
Mr. Afam Precious, the Community Secretary, stated that Otulu Ogwashi-Uku had enjoyed peace and stability until a declaration by the Delta State Security Council two years ago named one Francis Oduwanor as wanted for unlawfully imposing himself as the community's traditional ruler.
He recounted how Oduwanor and his associates staged violent attacks during a visit by the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, resulting in severe injuries and the destruction of property. Following this, Oduwanor fled, while his accomplices, including his brother Christopher Odiakose, were arrested and charged with criminal offenses.
However, Mr. Precious expressed concerns about subsequent interference. He alleged that a senior official from the Deputy Governor's office petitioned the Attorney General to secure the release of the suspects, despite their ongoing trials and remand at the Federal Correctional Center in Ogwashi-Uku.
"The release of these individuals reignited unrest in the community," he said. The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku had earlier warned the Governor in a letter dated March 7, 2024, about the potential consequences of releasing these individuals, a warning that was sadly realized when violence erupted.
Manufactured Crisis and Vested Interests
Mr. Precious claimed that the released individuals aim to fabricate a crisis to support illegal claims of autonomy and seize community land. Diokpa Monye, a respected elder, corroborated these claims, emphasizing that the security challenges resurfaced following the release of Oduwanor and his associates.
He commended the Inspector General of Police for deploying officers from Abuja to investigate, which led to fresh charges being filed against Oduwanor and 12 of his associates, now facing allegations of murder, rape, armed robbery, and grievous harm under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/566/2024 at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Government Interference Sparks Concern
Sources within the police revealed that certain senior officials, allegedly connected to the Attorney General's office, have been lobbying for the release of Oduwanor, a move that has raised eyebrows among law enforcement.
"It’s baffling to receive calls advocating for the release of someone facing such grave charges," an officer remarked anonymously.
Community Plea for Justice
Elders of Otulu Ogwashi-Uku have called on Governor Oborevwori to address the interference by land grabbers and complicit officials. They praised the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry and expressed optimism that their testimonies would bring justice.
“This is an opportunity to restore peace and expose those destabilizing our community for personal gain,” an elder stated.
The unfolding events in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku underscore the urgent need for decisive action to uphold justice, maintain peace, and protect communities from exploitation by vested interests.
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