The Ugolo community in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State has been thrown into turmoil following a violent crisis that erupted on December 30, 2024. The incident, described as an attempt to overthrow the community’s leadership, left several people with severe injuries and has raised alarm among residents and leaders.
The President General of Ugolo-Okpe community, Okakuro Benjamin Agbude, and the Youth Secretary, Mr. Akintia Israel, have called on Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Commissioner of Police, and the Department of State Security (DSS) to intervene urgently. They warn that the situation could escalate further if decisive action is not taken.
The attack, reportedly led by individuals including Mr. Edafe Onokpite, Mr. Efewu Itigha, Akpesiri Itigha, and Paul Iboyitete (alias Ejime), has left the community in disarray. Among the alleged perpetrators is Mr. Tefe Onokpite, a Special Assistant to the Governor, who has reportedly been taken into police custody.
According to the Ugolo community leaders, the violence was a deliberate attempt to seize power from the current executive. Victims of the attack include Mr. Ariayire Michael, Mr. Solomon Uba, and Precious Emakpor, who are currently receiving treatment for their injuries at private hospitals.
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Okakuro Agbude expressed shock that a public officeholder, such as the Governor’s Special Assistant, would be implicated in such a violent incident. He accused the alleged attackers of employing sophisticated weapons and firearms, leaving many residents in fear for their lives.
“We are deeply concerned about the involvement of a Special Assistant to the Governor in this heinous act,” Agbude said. “The use of sophisticated weapons to intimidate and harm innocent community members is unacceptable. We urge the Delta State Government to investigate this matter thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable.”
The community leaders have also appealed to the government to disengage the implicated Special Assistant from office, citing concerns for public safety, especially with the 2027 elections on the horizon.
“This crisis has cast a shadow over our community,” Agbude continued. “If urgent steps are not taken, the situation could spiral out of control. We are calling on the Governor, the Commissioner of Police, and other security agencies to act swiftly to restore peace and prevent further violence.”
Residents of Ugolo-Okpe community have expressed fears that the lives of some youth leaders remain at risk. Agbude and Israel reiterated their call for government intervention, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures in the area to protect community members.
The Ugolo crisis highlights the broader challenge of political instability and the misuse of power at the grassroots level. For many, the alleged involvement of a government official in such a violent episode raises questions about accountability and governance in Delta State.
As the injured victims continue to recover, the community awaits a clear response from the state government and security agencies. Governor Oborevwori, known for his commitment to maintaining peace and order in Delta State, is now under pressure to address the escalating tension in Ugolo.
