Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Tuesday 18 November commissioned a modern 40-room resettlement estate in Okuama community, Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The project was in fulfilment of the state government’s pledge to rebuild the community razed in March 2024 following the tragic killing of 17 military personnel.
The colourful ceremony, held at the newly constructed estate, signalled the formal return of hundreds of displaced indigenes who had lived in limbo for over 19 months.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori described the event as “more than a ceremony” but “a moment of renewal” that turns the page “from pain to possibility, from loss to restoration, from despair to hope.”
“We are here not only to commission buildings, but to recommit ourselves to a future of peace, dignity, and shared prosperity,” the governor stated, adding that the resettlement camp stands as a symbol of his administration’s resolve under the MORE Agenda to rebuild communities and restore trust.
He commended the resilience of Okuama people, calling them “the true heroes of this moment,” while urging them to embrace the new beginning with open hearts, sustain peace and protect the facilities provided.
The governor equally appreciated contractors, the Ministry of Housing, Ughelli South Local Government Council, security agencies and community leaders for their roles in actualising the project.
In his remarks, Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Dr. Lucky Avweromre, disclosed that the resettlement centre was executed by the council, while expressing profound gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for additionally constructing and equipping a primary school, a secondary school and a primary health centre for the community.
Community leaders, in an address signed by Mr. Okrika Emmanuel and Comrade Akemor Victor, thanked the governor for coming to their rescue at their darkest hour.
“What happened to us on 14th March, 2024 was a great surprise to our community because we have never experienced such a thing before. If not that you came to our rescue, the situation would have been worse,” they said, pledging the community’s total support for the Oborevwori administration and promising to maintain peace in the area.
The resettlement estate comprises forty lock-up rooms, two blocks of 20 toilets and bathrooms, solar-powered water reticulation system, and paved, roofed walkways connecting all structures.
With the commissioning, displaced Okuama indigenes are now free to return home and begin the journey of rebuilding their lives.
