Fresh unrest has erupted in Otonyasere community, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, following alleged midnight attacks that left homes and shops in ruins. Gunmen from Abigborodo community in Warri North, allegedly loyal to Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom, reportedly unleashed sporadic gunfire and torched properties worth millions in the early hours of September 16.

Hundreds of Okpe indigenes marched through the streets on September 23 in a peaceful protest, led by National President of the Okpe Youth Council Worldwide, Comrade Moses Newcome Odiete. “Okpe will not fold its arms while our people are oppressed,” Odiete declared. He accused the Alema of Warri of sponsoring oppression against Okpe people, insisting the disputed Okpe Osobo Forest Reserve is their ancestral land.

“The boundary between Okpe and Warri North is clearly the bridge, yet they have crossed into our territory. They burnt homes, shot our people, and still allege that I led an invasion into their community. We want peace, but nobody has monopoly of violence,” Odiete warned. He added that Okpe people had exercised restraint despite repeated provocations. “Okpe is not a toothless bulldog. If pushed further, we will defend our land. But for now, we are appealing to the federal and state governments to intervene before matters escalate,” he said firmly.

Community leaders provided historical context. Dr. D.G. Arieja said records dating back to colonial times prove the forest reserve belongs to Okpe. “The forefather of Emma Uduaghan contested this land matter in court several times and lost. Why should a lawyer reopen a settled case? The Olu of Warri must call his people to order before this turns into a wider crisis,” he stressed.

Mr. Freeborn Ogodo, former Secretary General of Sapele Okpe Community, blamed political connections for fueling the conflict. “They feel emboldened because they have people in power. But our peacefulness is not stupidity. The federal government must act decisively now to prevent bloodshed,” he said.

Traditional leaders echoed fears. Okakuro Godwin Daddy declared: “This land is in Ward 7, Sapele LGA, not Warri North. Alema himself once threatened to burn my house, and today that threat has been carried out. My home and goods worth millions are gone. I am homeless, but I will not give up my land,” he vowed.

Victims painted harrowing pictures of their ordeal. A shop owner alleged: “They warned me last year to leave. When I refused, they came shooting and burnt everything — freezers, palm oil, boat engines, cash. I lost everything.” Mrs. Morine Onojaefemre recalled escaping with her children. “They came at 1:30 a.m., shooting. I ran through the back door. My new motorcycle, my savings, my home — all gone. Today, I am penniless,” she cried.

The protesters stormed the Sapele Local Government Secretariat, where they were received by Mr. Felix Abone, executive assistant to Chairman Bright Abeke. Abone assured them the matter was being addressed. “The chairman is in Asaba with the Governor on this very issue. We don’t want this to degenerate into a tribal war. Your peaceful protest is commendable, and I assure you the right thing will be done,” he said. A stakeholders’ meeting is planned to address the crisis.