A high-powered delegation led by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and top security officials has visited Emede Community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, marking a major step toward restoring peace following the violent clash between youths and security operatives that left several houses destroyed and residents traumatised.
Key Highlights:
- Senator Joel-Onowakpo leads peace mission to Emede Community
- Community leaders, security agencies, and government officials hold reconciliation meeting
- Visit follows violent June 7 clash that led to destruction of homes
- Emede leaders pledge support for lawful security operations
- Security agencies commit to maintaining peace and stability
- Stakeholders agree on dialogue and cooperation to prevent future crises
The peace meeting came in the wake of the June 7, 2026 unrest in Emede Community, where tensions between youths and security agencies escalated into violence, resulting in the burning of residential buildings and widespread fear among residents.
Determined to prevent further escalation, community leaders, government representatives, traditional rulers, and security agencies embarked on a coordinated intervention aimed at rebuilding trust, promoting dialogue, and achieving lasting peace.
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The meeting attracted key stakeholders, including Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, who represents Delta South Senatorial District.
Also present were representatives of the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS), local government authorities, the Isoko Development Union (IDU), and traditional institutions.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Ovie of Emede Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Johnson Egbo Ewhiri II; President-General of Emede Kingdom, Elder John Emonido Owoma; President-General of the Isoko Development Union, Prof. Chris Akpotu; and Isoko South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Warri Ovoke Friday.
Addressing participants during the meeting, Senator Joel-Onowakpo commended security agencies and community leaders for embracing dialogue and choosing the path of peace.
He described the incident as unfortunate and inconsistent with the peaceful nature of Emede Community, stressing that violent confrontations between youths and security personnel often leave innocent residents to suffer the consequences.
According to the senator, while criminality must not be tolerated, security operations must also be conducted within the framework of the law and with full respect for human rights.
He further assured security agencies of continued collaboration and support from political and community leaders to sustain the peace process and prevent future breakdowns of law and order.
One of the major outcomes of the meeting was the public commitment by leaders of Emede Kingdom to promote internal peace and support legitimate security operations aimed at rooting out criminal activities within the area.
The leaders emphasized that while security agencies must be allowed to carry out their responsibilities, all operations should be lawful, professional, and respectful of citizens’ rights.
Participants agreed that sustained dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding remain the most effective tools for resolving conflicts and maintaining stability.
With tensions easing and stakeholders speaking with one voice, many residents see the intervention as a turning point in the journey toward lasting peace and development in Emede Community.
The successful resolution of the crisis has also been hailed as an example of how proactive leadership, community engagement, and security cooperation can prevent local disputes from escalating into prolonged conflicts.
