Okuama: Military Withdrawal Sparks Violence, One Dead, Three Injured

One individual has been confirmed dead, and three others have sustained machete wounds as the military withdrew from the embattled Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The decision to pull out follows earlier reports of soldiers being killed during peace and rescue operations in Okuama on March 14, 2024. In apparent retaliation, the military reportedly resorted to burning down the community.

Sources from neighboring Akugbene and Okoloba communities in Bomadi local government area revealed that the soldiers abruptly withdrew from Okuama on Tuesday without prior notice.

A former chairman of Akugbene, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed surprise at the sudden withdrawal, speculating that soldiers from the Urhobo descent within Okuama might have tipped off the community members. This unexpected development has brought some relief, allowing residents to venture out to neighboring communities, particularly to the Okuagbe market for essential supplies.

However, amidst the perceived respite, a new challenge has emerged. Three members of the Akugbene community were ambushed and attacked with machetes by returnees from Okuama while en route to Ezebiri community along a footpath. The assailants, reportedly armed, initially threatened the victims with guns before resorting to machete attacks. One survivor managed to escape and seek medical attention, highlighting the severity of the situation.

As tensions continue to mount, the victim remains in critical condition at a local primary healthcare center, underscoring the urgent need for stability and security in the region.