Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, PhD, has congratulated the people of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area after the Federal High Court sitting in Warri granted relief to detainees linked to the Okuama military incident.
In a statement to journalists, Mulade, a well-known peace ambassador, environmental rights advocate and development campaigner described the judgment as a “significant step” toward justice, healing and restoration of confidence in the rule of law. He said the court decision offers renewed hope to affected families and underscores the importance of due process in a democratic society.
Mulade commended the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice and called on stakeholders across Delta State to remain calm and law‑abiding.
“Lasting peace remains the most effective pathway to sustainable development, economic growth, and social stability,” he said, urging residents to prioritise dialogue and reconciliation over violence.
Addressing the Okuama people directly, Mulade urged peaceful coexistence with neighbouring communities and appealed to traditional leaders, youth groups, women organisations and other stakeholders to work together to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships. He said the Okuama crisis should be a lesson for all communities to embrace peaceful conflict resolution.
“Peace is the foundation upon which meaningful development is built,” Mulade said, adding that genuine commitment to forgiveness and mutual respect would help the affected communities emerge stronger and create a more prosperous future for coming generations.
He also prayed for continued peace, security and progress in Delta State and across the Niger Delta, and encouraged residents to back initiatives that promote harmony, justice and development.
Mulade further appealed to Deltans to support Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in delivering on his electoral promises, saying a cooperative citizenry is crucial for the “betterment of Deltans.”
The Federal High Court ruling follows months of tension in Okuama after the military operation that led to arrests and drew widespread attention from human rights groups and stakeholders. The court relief for the detainees sources say could ease tensions, but they warn that sustained dialogue and concrete reconciliation measures will be needed to secure long‑term peace in the area.