N/Delta crisis: Ondo community sends SOS to Mimiko

Yinka Oladoyinbo, Akure - 03.06.2009

The people of Arogbo-Ijaw in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State have alleged that many of their kinsmen have been trapped in the Niger Delta crisis.

The people have, therefore, called on the state governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, to come to their aid.

A statement by the community, signed by Boarnerge Kiliki and Chief Ishmael Legbe on Monday said the people were fishermen and women living in Gbaramatu kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The statement said those involved were in a helpless situation because of their inability to access basic necessities like food, water and clothing.

“Many children of these people have suffered and are still suffering from various diseases. Aside the fact that they are starving, they are presently hibernating in the bush for the fear of the unknown,” the statement read.

The community, therefore, pleaded with the governor to assist the victims with relief materials to facilitate their subsequent relocation to Ondo State.

The statement also denied a story that some wanted leaders of militant groups operating in the Niger Delta were hiding in Ilaje and Ese-Odo areas of the state.