The Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council in Delta State, Hon. Lucky Avweromre, PhD, stated on Sunday that the presence of soldiers in Okpare-Olomu Community did not constitute an invasion, contrary to reports by some media outlets.

This clarification was contained in a statement issued by the Media Unit of the Council Chairman?s office.

The Chairman explained that the soldiers were conducting routine patrols across communities within Ughelli South Local Government Area.

He refuted allegations of a military invasion of Okpare-Olomu Community.

Hon. Avweromre said, ?To claim the military invaded Okpare is false and untrue.?

He clarified that the soldiers were present to enforce compliance with the Chairman?s directive postponing the community?s conference scheduled for 26 December 2024.

The conference was deferred due to a court-ordered restraint prohibiting community meetings until legal proceedings are resolved.

Hon. Avweromre noted, ?The Ughelli South Local Government Council, under my leadership, requested the postponement to preserve peace and stability in the community.?

A letter, signed by Ewenede J.A., Secretary to the Local Government, was sent to the President General of Okpare Community and copied to security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police and the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion in Agbor, Delta.

The presence of security personnel, including the police, NSCDC, Army, and Vigilante Group of Nigeria, was to ensure compliance with the directive and avert any disruption.

?It is important to dispel misinformation and present an accurate account of the situation,? Hon. Avweromre concluded. (Nigerian Tribune)