The people of Ugborodo Community in Delta State have issued a unified and resolute demand: justice for the killing of one of their own, Emiko Onuwaje. In a powerful display of grief and determination, community members staged a peaceful protest in Ogidigben on Monday, clad in black and bearing leaves, to insist that the perpetrators of the murder be brought to trial.
Community leaders made it clear they will not accept the return of a prominent local figure to the area until those responsible are identified by the police and face proper prosecution in court. This condition underscores the depth of their grievance and their suspicion of internal complicity.
A Call for Accountability, Not Impunity
Speaking to journalists, Austin Ajuremisan, Vice Chairman of the Ugborodo Community Management Committee, was unequivocal: “There is no way justice would come, without bringing the culprit to book.” This sentiment was echoed by Eyengho Samuel Besidone, Secretary of the same committee, who emphasized that delivering justice is critical to calming the community's frayed nerves, especially among the youth.
The community's account of the incident, as recalled by Eghare Daniel Uwawah, the Eghare-Aja of Ugborodo, paints a tragic picture. He stated that Onuwaje was killed when a group of community members, en route to a peaceful protest at a Shell facility in Ogidigben, were allegedly attacked.
Allegations of Crime and Palace Cover-Up
The protest took a more pointed turn with allegations from a prominent Itsekiri leader, Ayirimi Emami. In a statement laden with grief and frustration, Emami alleged that his security company had previously filed petitions against a prime suspect involved in illegal oil bunkering. He challenged the narrative that opposing such activities was an attack on the local palace, asking pointedly: “Does the palace send people to protest or partake in criminal activities?”
Emami further claimed that one of the individuals already apprehended in connection with the case had made a confessional statement regarding Onuwaje's murder, adding weight to the community's call for a swift and transparent legal process.
The united front presented by Ugborodo Community is a direct appeal to federal authorities and security agencies. They frame Onuwaje's death not as a result of internal community strife, but as a clear case of murder, with a family and children left behind. Their solemn march and public statements are a plea for the state to “do the needful” and ensure that the cry for justice from the grave is answered.
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