In the wake of the recent violence that has engulfed the Okuama community in Delta State, a man identified as Otu (name withheld) has made a heart-wrenching decision to abandon his wife in the village and escape with their two children to safety.
Following the deadly attack that claimed the lives of 17 soldiers, the Okuama community has been left in a state of fear and uncertainty, forcing residents to flee their homes in search of safety. Otu recounted how he was left with no choice but to leave his wife behind, as she was too weak to make the arduous journey through the forest with them.
“It was a difficult decision to leave my wife behind, but I had to prioritize the safety of our children,” Otu expressed, reflecting on the challenging circumstances that compelled him to make such a tough choice.
With soldiers conducting search operations in the area, Otu undertook a perilous journey through the forest, carrying one child on his back and leading the other by hand, to reach the neighboring village of Tebideba. He described the experience as fraught with danger and uncertainty, expressing gratitude to the villagers who provided them with shelter and sustenance.
However, the fate of Otu’s wife and numerous other women and children from the Okuama community remains unknown, as they continue to be missing amidst the chaos and violence. The Delta State government has condemned the brutal killings and urged for peace and calm to be restored in the region, promising to prioritize the safety and security of all affected individuals.
As the situation in Okuama remains volatile, displaced families are in dire need of urgent intervention and support to rebuild their lives and find solace in the midst of adversity. The community is calling for swift actions to address the crisis and facilitate the reunification of families torn apart by the recent tragic events.
