Delta State Declares 30-Day Amnesty for Illegal Firearms in Ugolo/Okorikpere

The Delta State Government has issued a stern ultimatum to residents of Ugolo and Okorikpere communities in Okpe Local Government Area, giving individuals in possession of illegal firearms a 30-day window to surrender their weapons or face severe consequences. This directive was announced by Engr. Udoka Emmanuel, the Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Security, in a statement obtained by SaharaReporters on Thursday.

The amnesty, effective from January 1 to January 31, 2025, is part of the government’s efforts to address the increasing allegations of arms proliferation among youths in the two communities. The government has warned that failure to comply will result in an aggressive crackdown by security forces.

Government Issues Warning Against Firearms

The statement highlighted that the ongoing illegal possession of firearms poses a significant threat to the safety and future of the communities. “If the present spate of arms procurement in the affected communities is not checked, indigents and residents of both communities may witness an unsecured future for their next generation,” the statement read.

The government emphasized its commitment to ensuring peace and development in the region, warning that it will not tolerate individuals brandishing firearms illegally. Security agencies have been directed to act decisively if there are further incidents of violence or shootings.

Security Agencies on High Alert

Engr. Udoka revealed that a meeting involving the Ekpan Divisional Police Officer, CSP Aliyu Shaba, security appointees of the state government, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and leaders of the affected communities was convened to deliberate on the ongoing communal crisis. Following the meeting, a decision was made to initiate the amnesty program and enforce strict penalties for non-compliance.

The statement also disclosed that those willing to surrender their weapons should do so through the Weapons Takeover Delegates, led by DSP Waziri of Ekpan Division and Engr. Udoka, or via the President Generals of the affected communities.

Deadline and Consequences

The government has set February 1, 2025, as the deadline for the surrender of illegal firearms. After this date, a manhunt will be launched against suspected gun runners and individuals still in possession of firearms.

A stark warning was issued to residents: “Should there be any shooting again in the area, we have directed the security agencies to bring down anyone sighted with firearms. If you take this warning for granted, you may be playing with your life.”

Ongoing Investigations

The government assured residents that the ongoing investigations into the recent shootings in the area, which left five people, including a teenager, injured by stray bullets, will not be affected by the amnesty program.

The Delta State Government urged community leaders and residents to cooperate fully to ensure peace and security are restored to Ugolo and Okorikpere.