By Musa Adamu
The Deputy President of the Senate (DSP), Ovie Omo-Agege, has expressed shock and sadness over the reported killing of 9 persons, including a child, in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Omo-Agege said that this situation demands urgent and pragmatic efforts to prevent further bloodletting.
He said respected political, traditional, religious, women and youth leaders within and without Isoko need to preach restraint, de-escalate the situation and help to quickly restore genuine peace to the land.
He believes that it is by divine order that Isoko and Urhobo are historical good neighbours with strong filial, marital and lingual affinities.
“Whatever touches Isoko touches Urhobo, and vice versa. He is therefore genuinely concerned about the reported killings and bloody violence, and is ready to do whatever that is necessary for peace to reign.
“The DSP recognises the all-important duty of the Delta State Government to maintain internal security in the State.
“To this end, he encourages the Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa and his team, to work diligently to ensure that acts that are capable of leading to more bloodshed or violence are responsibly, urgently and sustainably curtailed.
“The Obarisi hereby appeals to all our people who may be involved in the crisis one way or the other to embrace peace, no matter the provocation. There is no alternative to peace. Where there are perceived injustices or wrongs, lawful processes should be followed.
“Isoko’s unity and progress are on trial and it is the duty of all responsible leaders and stakeholders to ensure these common interests are not sacrificed on the altars of violent reprisals and in-fighting. Let all persons involved in this matter cooperate with both the Local and State governments as well as relevant federal authorities to restore and maintain the peace in Isoko.
“The DSP is ready to engage with Distinguished Senator James Manager representing Delta South Senatorial District and other leaders on this matter for the overall good of our people.
“In the meantime, he has directed his Senior Special Assistant on Security Matters, Col. Melvin Usman (rtd), to immediately liaise with relevant authorities and stakeholders on the de-escalation of the situation. This is to enable him (Omo-Agege) to get more informed briefing on the matter and for him to better support peace efforts on the ground”, the statement said.
