Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has sued for peace between the people of Gbaramatu, Aladja, and Udu communities in the state, saying communities should always apply dialogue as the best way of settling disputes.
Addressing the press after a closed door meeting with security operatives, traditional rulers, members of the peace-building council and some stakeholders from Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh and Aladja communities Okowa disclosed that the meeting was necessary to avoid escalation of hostilities between the communities.
According to him, “the meeting was to maintain peace in the area while the Police carry out its investigation into what happened.
“At the meeting, we appealed to the communities to remain peaceful and we have a favourable outcome as we have been assured by the communities that they will maintain the peace.”
On the outcome of the committee set up to find lasting solution to the crisis, the governor assured that the right thing would be done, noting that the committee had submitted its report but that it required a process for the white paper to be released.
He reiterated that his administration would ensure peaceful co-existence among the people.
Earlier in an opening remark before the meeting started, Governor Okowa said: “It is unfortunate that we have lost some lives when the crisis erupted when I was on vacation, the Deputy Governor who was acting has briefed me appropriately and we are here with members of the Peace Building Council, traditional rulers and members of the state security council to fashion a way forward for us to live in peace.
“I appreciate the Gbaramatu community for the restraint and I believe that there is nothing that can be better than peaceful co-existence.”
