Former Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, alongside the President General of Uwheru Kingdom, Chief Macpherson Igbedi, and nine others, have been summoned by the police for questioning in relation to a developing crisis in Uwheru, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.
According to a report by Niger Delta Today, the police invitation comes as a result of an ongoing conflict between the traditional ruler of Uwheru Kingdom and some leaders in the area. The individuals involved are expected to report to the Delta State Police Command headquarters in Asaba at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 30, 2024.
The police letter, dated September 25, 2024, was addressed to Mr. Obukohwo Ekpevwru and signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Lucky Adagbon, of the X-Squad Unit. It mentions that the police are investigating the case and requests the presence of several individuals, including Prof. Muoboghare and Chief Igbedi, for an interface with the Commissioner of Police.
The letter specifically lists those invited: Macpherson Igbedi, Obukohwo Ojomi, Uruemusin Arhagba, Delta Ajamagran, Orunc Igbedi, Erhinodavwe Emerhivwe, Onoriode Igbedi, Mitain Arhagba, Ahere Emmanuel Okashe (also known as Good & Bad), and Prof. Patrick Muoboghare.
The situation in Uwheru is the latest in a series of tensions in the area. Earlier this year, the Nigerian Army occupied the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government for nearly two months. This military action followed the tragic killing of 17 soldiers who were ambushed on a peace mission during a protracted land dispute between the Urhobo community of Okuama and the neighboring Ijaw community of Okoloba. The Army’s intervention began on March 14, 2024, and escalated tensions in the region.
Prof. Muoboghare confirmed the police invitation but declined to make further comments on the matter. All eyes are now on the scheduled meeting with the police as the community awaits more information on how the crisis will be addressed.
