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The Ugborodo Community in the Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State has firmly stated that those accountable for the death of Emiko Onuwaje must be prosecuted to ensure justice for his family.

Community leaders have also declared that they will not welcome the return of a prominent member to Ugborodo until all suspects are identified by the police and brought to trial.

This demand was made during a peaceful protest held on Monday at Ogidigben, within the Ugborodo Federated Communities of the Warri Federal Constituency.

Clad in black, protesters marched through the main streets in a solemn procession, singing sorrowful songs and carrying leaves as a symbol of mourning.

Speaking to reporters, the Vice Chairman of the Ugborodo Community Management Committee (UCMC) and spokesperson for the Ogidigben Community Council of Elders, Austin Ajuremisan, emphasized that justice could only be realized if those responsible for the killing were held accountable.

Also addressing the media, UCMC Secretary Mr. Eyengho Samuel Besidone highlighted that the arrest and prosecution of the suspects would help alleviate tensions in the community, particularly among the youth.

He noted that the killing was not linked to any communal conflict.

“The man who was murdered had children and a family. This is a clear case of murder. When armed individuals invaded the community, we initially thought they were bandits but later realized they were our own brothers claiming to fight for the palace,” he stated.

Besidone urged the federal government and security agencies to act promptly, asserting that justice for the deceased would help restore peace in the area.

The Eghare-Aja of Ugborodo, Eghare Daniel Uwawah, recalled that the incident took place while Onuwaje and other community members were en route to the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) facility in Ogidigben for a peaceful protest when they were allegedly attacked.

An All Progressives Congress chieftain and Itsekiri leader, Ayirimi Emami, also expressed sorrow over the incident, noting that several petitions had previously been filed against the prime suspect regarding alleged illegal activities. He urged authorities to take decisive action, mentioning that a suspect had reportedly made confessional statements related to the killing.

According to DAILY POST, during a condolence visit to the Onuwaje family, Emami reiterated his call for security agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Onuwaje was reportedly killed over the weekend during the incident, which has since escalated tensions within the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What actions are being taken for justice in the Ugborodo Community?

The Ugborodo Community is demanding the prosecution of those responsible for Emiko Onuwaje's death, stating that justice must be served for his family. Community leaders have also called for the identification and trial of all suspects involved.

What happened during the protest in Ogidigben?

During the protest, community members dressed in black marched through the streets, singing mournful songs and holding leaves to symbolize their grief. They demanded justice for the killing of Emiko Onuwaje.

Who are the key figures speaking out about the incident?

Key figures include Austin Ajuremisan, Vice Chairman of the Ugborodo Community Management Committee, and Eyengho Samuel Besidone, the UCMC Secretary. Ayirimi Emami, an All Progressives Congress chieftain, has also spoken out, urging authorities to act swiftly.