Delta State Opens Resettlement Centre for Displaced Okuama Villagers
In a major step toward restoring normalcy to a devastated community, the Delta State Government has unveiled a resettlement centre for indigenes of the Okuama community, who were displaced after their homes were razed in a military operation.
The centre, built in Ewu, Ughelli South Local Government Area, is hosted within the premises of Ewu Grammar School, which has been repurposed to accommodate the internally displaced persons (IDPs).
At a recent tour of the facility, Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, chairman of the IDP Management Committee, assured displaced residents that the camp is fully ready and equipped to receive them.
He said the camp now has the capacity to house up to 1,500 people, far more than the initial plan.
To address broader community needs, the committee has also arranged for food, medical supplies, bedding, and generators.
Schools in the camp have been organised using nearby secondary and primary institutions, ensuring that children can continue their education while displaced.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has pledged to rebuild the destroyed Okuama community, including a new health centre and classrooms.
Monarchs from the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers also called for the “fast-tracking” of reconstruction so residents can return quickly to their ancestral homes.
However, despite early optimism, reports suggest that conditions remain difficult for some returnees after the IDP camp was shut down.
Many have expressed disappointment over uncompleted rebuilding projects, including schools and health facilities, and a slow pace of infrastructure restoration.