By Desire Emmanuel
The Delta State Police Command has averted what would have been a total showdown in three communities following reports that some youths had wielded weapons and were ready for battle over right to fish in the river that passes the communities as well as boundary matter and others.
In fact, the police command in the state had to hurriedly organise a stakeholders’ summit in order to douse the tension and avert the crisis that would have happened.
The command announced the development on Monday, December 1, saying the communities of Okwama, Okoloba and Akugbene have been under tension for some time as a result of disputes over boundary, fishing rights, among others.
The meeting among the stakeholders from the three communities was held around noon on Monday at the Area Command, Warri, and brought together community leaders, youth representatives, security stakeholders and traditional authorities where they held serious deliberations aimed at preventing conflict and restoring lasting peace in the communities.
At the meeting, the stakeholders acknowledged that the planned showdown primarily revolved around boundary adjustments and fishing rights, and they reaffirmed their readiness to cooperate for the greater good of all parties.
Following extensive deliberations, the community leaders agreed to caution their youths against carrying weapons about, especially during fishing activities and to discourage any acts of self-help capable of provoking violence.
It was also resolved that no community should impose boundaries on waterways, and that all individuals should be free to fish without intimidation or obstruction.
The command wrote: “Furthermore, any individual or group that violates the peace agreements or engages in conduct likely to disturb public order will be arrested and handed over to the Area Commander for prosecution.”
