The Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU) Youth Wing worldwide and Urhobo Youth Leaders Association have given conditions to be met before they can honour invitation to appear before the ongoing military inquiry into the Okuama bloodbath.
They called for the unconditional release of the Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo kingdom, HRM Clement Ikolo, to his people. The conditions were outlined in a position paper it presented for non-participation in the probe exercise.
This followed the invitation of Chief Edwin Uzor JP, the special adviser to the governor of Delta State on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution; Activist Blessed Ughere, the president of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Youth Wing Worldwide and Chief Samuel Oghotomo JP, president, Urhobo Youths Leaders Association.
They said the composition of the panel raises concerns about bias and impartiality.
They said they would not participate in the Military Board of Inquiry Investigating the tragic events of March 17 in Okuama, Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, Ughelli south local government area, Delta State, until specific conditions are met.
“We outline below the legal, ethical, and humanitarian reasons that inform our decision. Doctrine of ‘Nemo judex in causa sua’ (No one should be a judge in their own case).
“The Nigerian Army, being a party involved in the matter, cannot impartially conduct an investigation or adjudication. More so, when the Army have already taken position by declaring eight persons wanted without inviting them for proper investigation.
“This fundamental principle of natural justice prohibits biased entities from presiding over cases where they have vested interests. It is our considered view that Okuama people are not subject to military laws.”
While saying a military-led inquiry lacks the legal authority to investigate civilians’ matters, they demanded that the culprits responsible for the gruesome killings be apprehended and handed over to the police for prosecution.
“We dissociate ourselves from these individuals, as it is not in our character as Urhobo people to take lives, let alone that of the Army who have been in the fore-front of keeping this nation secure and safe,” they added.
They also want the Army to cease the harassment of Urhobo neighbouring communities to Okuama.
“Just yesterday, the Army invaded Olota community, arrested community
leaders and set houses ablaze and Okuama community still under siege while panel of inquiry is ongoing.
“The military’s previous declarations and actions, including declaring Okuama community leaders as ‘wanted’ in various media outlets, undermine the credibility of the Board of Inquiry,” they added.
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