The Owah-Abbi community in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State has raised alarm over escalating threats to their autonomy and security. Community leaders, during a courtesy visit to the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, in Asaba on Thursday, January 9, passionately appealed for urgent government intervention to restore peace and stability.
Led by Chief Imala Odufu, the delegation expressed grave concerns over issues plaguing their once-peaceful community, including the destructive activities of Fulani herdsmen on farmlands across the River Ethiope and disputes related to oil discoveries in the region. Chief Odufu decried the increasing intimidation and harassment allegedly orchestrated by the Ukwata of Umukwata Kingdom, a neighboring community, warning that unchecked interference could spark a full-blown crisis.
“Our community is under siege,” Chief Odufu lamented. “From herdsmen destroying our farmlands to intimidation and arrests instigated by our neighbors, our autonomy is being threatened. This cannot continue if peace is to prevail.”
In response, Deputy Governor Onyeme assured the community that the Delta State government would not stand idle in the face of such unrest. He emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy for actions that disrupt peace and promised to address the community’s concerns.
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“The autonomy of Owah-Abbi is a legitimate concern, and we will thoroughly review your grievances and engage the appropriate agencies to resolve this matter,” Onyeme stated. “No one has the right to incite conflict or undermine the peace of any community.”
Onyeme also condemned the misuse of law enforcement by influential individuals to intimidate others, vowing that such practices would not be tolerated. He urged all communities to prioritize dialogue and unity, stressing that mutual respect is essential for peaceful coexistence.
Addressing the conflicts fueled by oil resource discoveries, Onyeme called for prudent management of resources to prevent unnecessary divisions. “The lives lost in these conflicts far outweigh the revenue generated. We must learn to work together for the greater good,” he emphasized.
The Deputy Governor’s remarks were a call to action for all parties involved, as he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering peace and sustainable development across Delta State.
