Fresh unrest has gripped Otonyasere community in Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State following midnight attacks that left homes and shops in ruins. The violence, which occurred in the early hours of September 16, was allegedly carried out by gunmen from Abigborodo community in Warri North, said to be loyal to Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom. The attackers reportedly fired sporadic gunshots and set properties worth millions of naira ablaze.

Outraged by the destruction, hundreds of Okpe indigenes staged a peaceful protest on September 23, marching through the streets to the Sapele Local Government Secretariat. Led by Comrade Moses Newcome Odiete, National President of the Okpe Youth Council Worldwide, the demonstrators demanded urgent government intervention.

“Okpe will not fold its arms while our people are oppressed,” Odiete declared, accusing the Alema of sponsoring attacks over the disputed Okpe Osobo Forest Reserve, which he described as ancestral Okpe land. “The boundary between Okpe and Warri North is clearly defined, yet they crossed into our territory, burnt homes, shot our people, and now accuse us of invading them. We want peace, but no one has monopoly of violence.”

He added that Okpe people had remained restrained despite repeated provocations. “Okpe is not a toothless bulldog. If pushed further, we will defend our land. For now, we appeal to the federal and state governments to act before matters escalate.”

Community leaders backed Odiete’s claims with historical records. Dr. D.G. Arieja said documents dating back to the colonial era prove that the forest reserve belongs to Okpe. “Emma Uduaghan’s forefathers contested this matter in court several times and lost. Why should it be reopened now? The Olu of Warri must call his people to order before this turns into a larger crisis.”

Mr. Freeborn Ogodo, former Secretary General of the Sapele Okpe Community, argued that political connections were emboldening the aggressors. “They feel protected because they have people in power. But our calmness should not be mistaken for weakness. The federal government must act decisively to prevent bloodshed.”

Traditional leaders also voiced concern. Speaking for the chiefs, Okakuro Godwin Daddy stated: “This land is in Ward 7, Sapele LGA — not Warri North. Alema once threatened to burn my house, and today that threat has been fulfilled. My property worth millions is gone. I am homeless, but I will never surrender my land.”

Victims of the attacks recounted their ordeals. One shop owner, who asked not to be named, said: “They warned me last year to leave. When I refused, they came at night, shooting, and burnt everything — freezers, palm oil, boat engines, cash. I lost everything.”

Another victim, Mrs. Morine Onojaefemre, recalled fleeing with her children. “They came at 1:30 a.m. shooting. I escaped through the back door. My motorcycle, my savings, my home — all gone. I have nothing left,” she said tearfully.

At the Sapele Local Government Secretariat, the protesters were received by Mr. Felix Abone, executive assistant to Chairman Bright Abeke. He assured them that the matter was already being addressed at both local and state levels.

“The chairman is in Asaba with the Governor on this issue. We don’t want this to degenerate into tribal conflict. Your peaceful protest is commendable, and I assure you the right thing will be done,” Abone said.

He added that a stakeholders’ meeting would soon be convened to resolve the crisis. “We are brothers and sisters. Peace must not be lost. Please go about your lawful duties while government handles this matter decisively.”

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