Recent unrest in Okere Community, Warri, Delta State, has escalated into a violent confrontation resulting in the shooting of two individuals.
The victims, Macaulay Uku and another individual identified as Eguono, were allegedly shot by security operatives believed to be soldiers from the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.
The incident unfolded when a disagreement arose between the soldiers and local youths following a visit by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to the Itsekiri enclave. Reports suggest that during the Olu’s visit to a shrine in the community, a confrontation ensued when he attempted to dab olive oil, which was met with resistance from the community’s youths.
The exact circumstances that led to the deployment of soldiers to the community remain unclear. Brigadier General Sanusi Aliyu, Brigade Commander of the 63 Brigade in Asaba, could not be reached for comment. Additionally, Major A. E Kabara, the former Public Relations Officer of the Brigade, stated that he had been redeployed and no replacement had been named yet.
This incident has sparked concerns and raised questions about the use of military force in civilian communities and highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the events that transpired in Okere Community.
