Oborevwori Commissions New Housing Cluster In Okuama, Signals Community’s Rebirth

DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday commissioned a newly built cluster of housing units and supporting infrastructure in Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area—marking a decisive step in the state’s commitment to rebuild the once-devastated community.

Okuama was razed in March 2024 following the killing of 17 Nigerian Army personnel, an incident that displaced the entire community and left residents in prolonged uncertainty. Tuesday’s commissioning ceremony symbolised a turning point as families prepared to return home after months of hardship.

Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori described the event as “a moment of renewal”for the people of Okuama and Delta State.

“This is more than a ceremony,” he said. “It is a moment when we turn the page from pain to possibility, from loss to restoration, from despair to hope. This resettlement camp is not just a cluster of houses; it is a place where life can begin anew, where families can regain stability, and where Okuama can rise again.”

The Governor acknowledged the painful memories that still linger but noted that his administration chose the path of rebuilding, reconciliation, and collective rebirth.

Guided by the MORE Agenda, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring communities and protecting the dignity of every Deltan.

“What government can achieve becomes evident when compassion meets responsibility and leadership is guided by the will to heal,” he said, urging residents to unite, protect the facilities, and embrace the renewed opportunity for peace and development.

He commended the contractors, Ministry of Housing, Ughelli South Local Government Council, security agencies, community leaders and all stakeholders who contributed to the project, while describing Okuama residents as “the true heroes of this moment” for their strength and resilience.

Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Hon. Lucky Avweromre, disclosed that the Local Government Council built the Community Resettlement Centre, and thanked the governor for complementing the efforts with the construction of a primary school, secondary school and primary healthcare centre for the returning residents.

Meanwhile, the Okuama community, through a joint statement signed by Mr. Okrika Emmanuel and Comrade Akemor Victor, expressed deep appreciation to the governor for coming to their aid after the traumatic events of March 14, 2024.

They described the attack on the community as unprecedented and said the intervention of the governor prevented the situation from degenerating further.

“It is good to have a leader who listens to the voice of his people,” they stated. “We believe in your government. On behalf of the Okuama community, we promise to stand by your administration to sustain peace because we know you are a man of peace.”

The newly commissioned project includes:

• 40 room spaces

• Two blocks of 20 toilets and bathrooms

• A solar-powered water reticulation system

• A paved and roofed walkway linking all structures

The facilities are designed to provide immediate shelter, stability and dignity to returning families while supporting the long-term redevelopment of Okuama.