The Federal Government has strongly condemned the reported cases of sexual assault allegedly connected to a cultural celebration held in Ozoro community, Delta State, and has directed security agencies to immediately arrest and prosecute anyone found responsible. This directive was issued by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, through an official statement released by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau, in Abuja. The government’s reaction followed the widespread circulation of a disturbing video on social media showing alleged incidents of sexual harassment and assault during the Alue-Do Festival, a traditional event popularly known as the Festival of Fertility in Ozoro Kingdom, located in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State. According to the minister, the Federal Government is deeply troubled by the reports suggesting that several women were harassed and assaulted during the activities linked to the celebration. She stressed that such actions are unacceptable in any society and must never be tolerated under any circumstance. While acknowledging the quick intervention of the Delta State Police Command, the minister called for a transparent, detailed, and speedy investigation to ensure that all individuals involved are properly identified and brought before the law without delay. She described the alleged actions as shocking, unlawful, and completely against the principles of human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law. She also noted that the Nigerian Constitution, together with the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, clearly protects citizens against any form of sexual abuse, harassment, or violence. The minister emphasized that no cultural belief, festival practice, or traditional activity should ever be used as an excuse to justify sexual violence. She reiterated that sexual assault remains a serious criminal offence and every allegation must be properly investigated with offenders facing the full weight of the law. She further stated that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of women and girls across the country, adding that authorities will not allow harmful practices to continue under the guise of tradition. In addition, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development announced plans to strengthen cooperation with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs in order to provide urgent support to victims. This support will include medical care, psychological counselling, and legal assistance for anyone affected by the incident. The minister also revealed that the government will increase engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders, and local stakeholders to address harmful cultural practices and ensure such incidents do not happen again in the future. Members of the public were encouraged to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies by providing useful information that can help in the investigation, so that justice can be served and similar occurrences can be prevented going forward. Authorities assured that the matter will be treated with seriousness and urgency, as protecting citizens from abuse remains a top priority.
Overview of the Proposed Amendment Bill on Security The Delta State House of Assembly has advanced legislative action aimed at improving local security infrastructure by passing the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency (Amendment) Bill through its second reading. The lead sponsor, Hon. Isaac Anwuzia, representing Aniocha South Constituency and serving as Chairman of the Committee on Peace and Security, introduced the bill alongside 27 other lawmakers. This legislative effort is focused on curbing insecurity and strengthening community-based security operations. : Read more about security and development policies in Delta State Key Objectives of the Bill Hon. Anwuzia emphasized that the amendment is designed to: By expanding the corps’ mandate and operations, the bill hopes to provide a stronger, more integrated response to crime, especially kidnapping, armed robbery, and herders-related violence. Why This Bill Matters The lawmaker highlighted that security is a foundational element for any society looking to attract investment and provide for its citizens. He noted that without safety, communities risk stagnation and economic decline. Citing the alarming rate of insecurity across Nigeria, Anwuzia urged fellow legislators to act swiftly. The bill calls for remuneration for corps members, with a base salary equivalent to Salary Grade Level 5 of the state’s civil service structure. Learn more about Nigeria’s civil service salary structure Who Will Be Involved? According to the proposed law: Next Legislative Steps The Speaker of the House has assigned the bill to a joint committee comprising the House Committee on Special Bills and the Committee on Peace and Security. The committees are expected to deliver their report by May 20, 2025. Conclusion This amendment bill signals Delta State’s commitment to combatting rising insecurity through organized, community-led security solutions. If passed into law, the Community Security Corps Agency will not only be more effective but also better positioned to partner with stakeholders in ensuring safety and peace. For more political updates and state news, visit our LMSINT MEDIA politics section. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Delta State affirms it has not borrowed any funds since 2023 under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s leadership. Learn about the state’s financial strength and transparency. The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its financial prudence, stating unequivocally that it has not borrowed any funds since Governor Sheriff Oborevwori assumed office on May 29, 2023. The statement was made by the Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, during a press briefing in Asaba on Friday. Delta: Nigeria’s Financial Stronghold Chief Tilije emphasized that Delta State remains one of the strongest financial states in Nigeria. He dismissed allegations from an online news platform claiming that the state had engaged in borrowing activities. In his words: “This state has not entered into any borrowing relationship whatsoever, whether with partners, individuals, corporations, banks, or institutions at the local, national, or international levels. We have not borrowed a dime since this administration took effect on the 29th of May, 2023.” The commissioner further highlighted the state’s robust financial health, stating, “Delta State is financially sound, and I can confidently assert that it stands as the strongest financial state in Nigeria today.” Debt Management and Infrastructure Development Chief Tilije also shed light on the administration’s achievements, revealing that significant strides have been made in debt repayment and infrastructure development. “We have consistently ensured that debts are being paid down as diligently as possible. Our administration has funded construction projects and established better relationships with contractors. Unlike in the past, contractors now receive advanced payments promptly,” Tilije explained. Governor Oborevwori: A Leader of Integrity The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s leadership. He described the governor as a man of impeccable integrity, committed to transparency in governance. Aniagwu added, “Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated exceptional accountability in managing the state’s resources, ensuring that projects are executed effectively and citizens benefit from the state’s wealth.” Key Achievements of Governor Oborevwori’s Administration Conclusion The Delta State Government’s declaration of financial independence underscores its commitment to sustainable development and accountability. With Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the helm, Delta State continues to set an example of fiscal responsibility and transparent leadership. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Seven months after being displaced, Okuama residents return home to face abandoned projects and deplorable conditions. Discover their plight and the urgent call for government action. Seven months after relocating to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Ewu, residents of Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, returned home on January 1st only to face despair. Their once-thriving community remains in ruins with no signs of promised rehabilitation projects being completed. The residents, who had been displaced after a military operation in their community following the death of some soldiers last year, expressed disappointment as they returned to meet a shattered home. The state government had earlier assured the rebuilding of key structures, including schools, health centers, and town halls, but progress on these promises has been stagnant. Okuama Residents’ Harrowing Plight Unfulfilled Promises by the GovernmentThe Delta State Government, under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, had pledged a swift rebuilding of Okuama to restore normalcy. While inaugurating the Okuama IDP Committee, Governor Oborevwori assured that the community would be rehabilitated within three months. However, residents returned to incomplete projects and an absence of contractors on-site. Devastated CommunityOn arrival, returnees found themselves homeless, with makeshift wooden and thatched huts serving as temporary shelters. Children were out of school, forced into farming and fishing to survive. Parents lamented their inability to provide education or a safe environment for their children. “We returned with high hopes, but everything here remains the same. Our children have no schools to attend, and we have no homes to live in,” lamented a local resident, Aaron Ighorhiohwunu. Government Projects: Delayed and Abandoned Despite the initial promises, the primary school, health center, and town hall projects are far from completion. Contractors have abandoned the sites, leaving residents stranded. Okuama youths, women, and elders have voiced their frustration, calling on the government to expedite the rehabilitation process. Hon. Jacob Akemor, a former councilor, expressed dismay at the state of affairs: “We feel utterly disappointed. Seven months after leaving our community for the camp, the promised infrastructure remains uncompleted.” Heartbreaking Living Conditions Residents are living in makeshift structures, with no access to clean water or healthcare. Fishing, farming, and gathering in bushes have become their daily routine, exposing them to harsh conditions. Some residents, like Mrs. Queen Oghenehwosa, have taken refuge in the bush due to the lack of shelter in Okuama. “We were promised a rebuilt community, but nothing has been done. We’ve been left to fend for ourselves in deplorable conditions,” she lamented. Children, eager to return to school, have been left disillusioned. Young Rukevwere, a JSS 2 student, shared: “I want to go to school, not fish. This is not the life I want.” Call for Urgent Action The Okuama Community Development Committee (CDC) and other stakeholders are appealing to the Delta State Government, Urhobo leaders, and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene. Mr. Emmanuel Okrika, CDC Chairman, stated: “Our people are living in hellish conditions. We need urgent intervention to rebuild our homes, schools, and health centers.” Former Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, has also taken a proactive approach, calling for donations of building materials to kickstart community reconstruction. What Needs to Be Done Conclusion Okuama residents have suffered immensely, from displacement to shattered hopes of rehabilitation. The government must act decisively to alleviate their plight and fulfill its promises. Restoring Okuama is not just about rebuilding structures but also about restoring hope, dignity, and a future for its people. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Delta Government Seeks Military Confirmation on Okuama Leaders’ DeathsThe Delta State Government has yet to receive confirmation from the military regarding the death of 81-year-old Pa Dennis Okugbaye, the Treasurer of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area. His passing reportedly occurred in military detention six days after the death of another community leader, Pa James Oghoroko, the community’s President General. Both leaders were among six Okuama elders arrested in August 2024 following allegations of community unrest. Addressing the matter, Delta State’s Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, clarified, “We have no confirmation from the military about the death of any additional individual after the first reported case. Speculation is premature.” Stakeholders Condemn Military Actions in OkuamaThe deaths have sparked widespread criticism from stakeholders and groups. Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President of the Conference of Presidents-General of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities, condemned the military’s approach. He stated, “The lack of professionalism in the Okuama operation led to these tragic outcomes. Proper investigations, including autopsies, must be conducted to determine culpability.” Similarly, Charles Tejiri, a Niger Delta activist, called for the release of the remaining detainees, emphasizing that the police should take over the case for a transparent investigation. He said, “Civilians have no business in military detention. The deaths of these leaders demand thorough scrutiny and accountability.” Justice System and Governance Failures HighlightedMr. Saviour Akpan, Executive Director of the COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peace Building, blamed the tragedy on systemic failures. He criticized delays in prosecuting the detained leaders and called for adherence to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act of 2015. “An efficient justice system would have resolved this case swiftly. The lack of updates and accountability from the government further deepens public distrust,” he said. Political activist Blessing Adima questioned the military’s involvement in detaining civilians. He stressed, “Military custody in a democracy is unacceptable. Authorities must explain the circumstances of these deaths and ensure justice prevails.” Global Urhobo Community Extends SupportIn the wake of the tragedy, the Urhobo Association of Washington, DC, USA, extended relief materials to displaced residents of Okuama. President of the Association, Dr. Festus Sowho, expressed solidarity with the affected community, stating, “We stand with you during this time of pain and rebuilding. Our contribution is a token of our shared responsibility to support and advocate for justice and peace in Okuama.” The Association distributed essential supplies, including rice, beans, yam, toiletries, and other food items, to ease the community’s hardship. Call for ActionAs Okuama mourns its losses, stakeholders are urging the Nigerian government and military to provide transparency, accountability, and justice. The incident underscores the need for improved professionalism in military operations and a justice system that prioritizes efficiency and fairness. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
