A year after the controversial displacement of Okuama residents, the lawmaker representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the Senate, Ede Dafinone has renewed calls for justice and government intervention to restore the community’s homes and livelihoods.
The displacement, which resulted from a land dispute and security concerns, left many residents homeless and struggling to rebuild their lives.
Speaking at a memorial event marking the anniversary, the senator condemned the continued neglect of the affected families, emphasizing that no meaningful steps had been taken to address their suffering. He urged the federal and state governments to expedite efforts to resettle the displaced persons and compensate them for their losses.
Okuama residents, who have been scattered across different communities, expressed their frustration over the slow response from authorities. Many lamented the hardships they have faced, including lack of access to proper housing, healthcare, and education for their children.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the displacement and a sustainable plan to reintegrate the affected families into their homeland.