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The Divisional Police Officer of the "B" Division in Warri, Delta State, and his team have apprehended two suspects in connection with the arson that gutted a section of the Okere-Urhobo Youth Movement Secretariat in the Okere-Urhobo Community.
A police source, who requested anonymity, confirmed the arrests to DAILY POST. The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, also verified the development, stating simply, “Confirmed,” in a message sent to our correspondent.
The suspects are currently in custody at the State Command in Asaba, awaiting further investigation. The arson took place on the night of Thursday, January 1, 2025, when hoodlums set fire to the building that houses the Okere-Urhobo Youth Secretariat, causing significant damage and sparking tensions in the community.
The incident is believed to be tied to an ongoing dispute over a directive from HRM Ogheneochuko Morrison Eyekpimi Egboboye, the Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, and the Delta State Police Command. The directive suspended all traditional festivals in the kingdom until existing issues are resolved. This decision was reportedly disregarded by some individuals, who proceeded with plans for the festival, contributing to the unrest.
Comrade Eboh Okpako Elvis, the Youth President of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, condemned the attack, stating that it was an attempt to undermine the community’s peace efforts. He revealed that the local police had ordered a halt to both the youth election and the traditional festival to maintain order. However, some groups ignored the directive and continued preparations, including distributing materials for the festival.
Despite a peace meeting held on January 2, where both parties agreed to uphold tranquility, some individuals allegedly mobilized thugs to disrupt the situation, resulting in the fire that damaged the secretariat.
Comrade Eboh lamented the attack, revealing that the assailants had also defaced a banner bearing the Orosuen’s image during the Christmas period. He urged the community's youth to remain peaceful and law-abiding while calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.
Local leaders, including a councillor and former youth president, also condemned the arson, urging for peace in the community. The Oghuvwie of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom denounced the attack as a deliberate act of sabotage, urging the youths to embrace unity and avoid further violence.
Security forces, including the police and the army, have been deployed to the area, and the community is calling on authorities to take swift action to prevent any further escalation. The situation remains tense, but there are hopes for a peaceful resolution.
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