Oghara Monarch Condemns Herdsmen Killing, Orders Bush Evacuation, Appeals for Calm

The Ovie of Oghara Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Noble Oyibo Eshemitan, Orefe III has appealed for calm following the killing of an Oghara indigene, Mr. Vincent Adojo, at his farmland allegedly by suspected Fulani herdsmen, urging residents not to resort to reprisals as security agencies intensify efforts to track down those responsible.

The monarch, made the appeal during a condolence visit to the family of the deceased in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State.

Accompanied by chiefs of the kingdom and police officers, the traditional ruler expressed deep sorrow over the killing, describing it as a tragic incident that has shaken the kingdom.

“I have come to commiserate with my people over the brutal killing of our son,” the monarch said, while confirming that the deceased’s wife, who was also caught up in the attack and later released, is receiving medical treatment.

As part of immediate measures, the Ovie directed that Fulani herders vacate bush areas within Oghara Kingdom, stressing that the decision was aimed at addressing growing security concerns. He also called on members of the Hausa and Fulani communities to cooperate with security agencies by identifying and exposing criminals hiding among them.

The monarch assured residents that the kingdom would work closely with law enforcement authorities to ensure those behind the killing are arrested and prosecuted.

He urged aggrieved youths and residents to remain peaceful, warning against taking the law into their own hands despite the outrage generated by the incident.

Following the condolence visit, the Ovie also visited the Hausa community in Oghara, where some properties were reportedly attacked by angry youths after news of the killing spread.

While condemning the killing of the Oghara indigene, he also expressed disappointment over the destruction that occurred in the Hausa settlement, insisting that violence should not be met with further violence.

He described Oghara as a peaceful and welcoming community that has always accommodated people from different parts of the country.

Responding on behalf of the Hausa community, its spokesperson distanced residents from the attackers, saying those living peacefully in Oghara had no connection with individuals operating in the surrounding forests. He pledged the Hausa/Fulani community’s support for ongoing efforts to combat crime and restore peace in the kingdom.

The latest developments come amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Delta State, with community leaders and residents calling for stronger security measures to curb kidnappings and attacks linked to armed criminal groups.