By Cecilia Ogezi
A Coalition of civil society organizations and stakeholders have called for a proper investigation into the crisis of Okuama/Okoloba communities in Delta State.
Speaking on behalf of the group at a press conference held in Abuja, the executive director, Center for Grassroots Development and Crime Prevention, Mr Musa Akiga, said the investigation should involve all security agencies and Civil Society Organizations working in the area of peace building, and should not be left alone to the government.
He further stated that its representative, a peace and human rights activist, Mr Ozuem Onyebolise who is also the treasurer of the Urhobo Youth Leaders Association Abuja chapter ( UYLA) had earlier called for a community meeting with some youth leaders, local and government representatives to interrogate the peace mission and crisis situation.
Akiga noted that deliberations at the meeting unfortunately led to intimidation and threats to Onyebolise and some peace activists present at the meeting due to questions raised during this meeting resulting to a few of them going into hiding for fear of their safety.
The group further extolled the virtues of the treasurer, pointing out that he is known to promote peace in his immediate community in his state and in Nigeria, stating that the call is to stop further harassment and intimidation of a citizen, peace promoter as well as the lives of others involved.
The Coalition and stakeholders condemed the harassment and further calls for peace, stressing that human rights activists should be allowed their fundamental human rights to discharge their duties without fear. NNL.
