Delta Community Protests Alleged Release of Armed Suspects, Fears Fresh Attack

Residents of Ogidigben (Ugborodo Federated Communities), Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest over what they described as an imminent threat of another armed attack on the community.

The protesters alleged that suspects arrested during an April 6 attack on the community had been released and were now threatening to launch another invasion, following the circulation of a viral video purportedly showing one of the suspects making the threat.

Carrying placards demanding justice and improved security, the residents appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and security agencies to investigate the alleged release of the suspects, produce those arrested during the April operation and prevent a fresh outbreak of violence.

Community spokesman and Vice Chairman of the Ugborodo Community Management Committee (UCMC), Elder Austin Ajuremisan, said residents were still grieving the December 20 killing of Emiko Onuwaje and remained traumatised by the April attack, during which armed suspects were allegedly apprehended with weapons.

The UCMC’s National Youth Association Secretary, Jerry Iyonsi, said the community was living in fear following reports that suspects arrested with AK-47 rifles had been released, while women leader Caroline Ekuanjemi appealed to the Federal and Delta State governments to protect lives and restore peace.

The protesters urged security agencies to investigate the viral video, account for all suspects arrested during the April operation and strengthen security in Ogidigben to prevent another attack.