Okpare-Olomu youth leader denies military harm in community

Contrary to negative media reports, the Okpare-Olomu Community youth leader in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Andrew Okpogbodu, stated today that soldiers did not harm anyone in the community.

Okpogbodu made this claim during a telephone conversation with journalists in the state.

He described allegations by President-General Okiemute Otoka against the soldiers as “typical lies” meant to tarnish the reputation of the Nigerian Army.

Recounting events on Saturday, Okpogbodu said the Police and vigilante operatives were mobilised to prevent a breakdown of law and order after youths, allegedly loyal to Otoka, attacked a policeman, stole his rifle, and injured a vigilante member, who remains hospitalised.

Okpogbodu explained that soldiers were called to defuse the tense situation and support the police in recovering the stolen rifle, which they handed back to the officers.

He emphasised that soldiers and police did not engage in violence, noting internal community disputes had led to the unrest. A three-member committee was established to recommend solutions.

Attempts by the Ughelli Area Commander of the Nigeria Police Force to mediate were allegedly rejected by Otoka, who refused discussions and pressed ahead with plans for a community conference.

Okpogbodu stated the Local Government Council intervened, writing to Otoka to defer the conference, but he allegedly ignored the request and persisted.

Meanwhile, President-General Okiemute Otoka insisted in a telephone interview that the community remains united, attributing the unrest to elder council members allegedly involved in illegal land sales.

Otoka claimed these “Super Elders” resist accountability, target dissenters, and have taken spiritual and physical actions against him since his refusal to partake in land-related activities.

The crisis reportedly began after Otoka highlighted a three-point agenda in May addressing security, illegal land sales, and constitutional reforms, which angered the implicated elders.

He accused the Super Elders of seeking legal injunctions to block the community’s annual conference, which he views as vital for addressing grievances and ensuring accountability.

Otoka alleged bribery influenced court decisions delaying resolutions, and despite petitions against him, he welcomed the conference as an opportunity for transparency and potential impeachment if necessary.

A source within the Nigerian Army dismissed allegations of violence, asserting that soldiers were present only to support the police, maintain order, and safeguard civilians.

The Army reiterated its commitment to fostering positive relations with the civilian populace and denied any involvement in the alleged invasion or violence.

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