Residents Seek Federal Government Action After Ogidigbẹn Attack

The Ogidigbẹn community in Ugborodo, Delta State, has sent an urgent SOS to the Federal Government and security agencies following an alleged armed incursion that left residents fleeing their homes. The community is calling for immediate intervention to restore peace and investigate those behind the attack, which reportedly occurred on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

Residents alleged that armed men invaded the community in an operation they linked to associates of Ayiri Emami and Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, the member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. According to community sources, the attackers were mobilised through a proxy, identified as Mr. Tunu Onuwaje, and their arrival abruptly halted normal activities as fear spread across the area.

Community leaders said the incident was not triggered by any dispute, noting that Ogidigbẹn had deliberately stayed away from a recent protest at a Chevron facility. They maintained that the community has long resisted external political and economic influence, a position they believe has repeatedly exposed it to intimidation and attacks.

The invasion reportedly coincided with the absence of Chief (Capt.) John Okpeyo Daje, a prominent leader regarded by residents as a stabilising figure. He was said to be in Warri attending a chieftaincy ceremony at the Palace of the Olu of Warri when the attack took place, a development locals believe emboldened the assailants.

Residents further alleged that the attackers set fire to Chief Daje’s residence, destroying his house and several vehicles, while other homes in the community were also burnt on Sunday, December 21, 2025. They also accused the armed men of carrying out sexual assaults against some girls, allegations that have deepened trauma and heightened calls for justice.

Confusion surrounding the incident intensified after the death of Mr. Emiko Onuwaje. Community members disputed claims circulating online that he was an indigene or resident of Ogidigbẹn, insisting instead that he was part of the group that entered the community during the attack. They said he may have been fatally shot amid sporadic gunfire, possibly by one of the invading group, and rejected claims that local youths were responsible.

As tension persists, residents said armed individuals are still being sighted around the seashore area, preventing displaced families from returning home. They warned that without swift action, the situation could deteriorate further.

The community has appealed to the Federal Government, Delta State Government, the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff and other relevant agencies to deploy security forces, conduct a transparent investigation, and hold all those involved accountable. They stressed that Ogidigbẹn seeks peace and the right to live without intimidation, violence or destruction.