The Young Nigerian Rights Organization and the convener of the “Save Delta Security Platforms” have raised alarm over a looming security crisis in Delta State, urging the Commissioner of Police to intervene to prevent potential violence.
In a petition addressed to the Delta State Police Command, the activists highlighted a leadership tussle within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Illah Branch D, in Oshimili North Local Government Area.
The dispute, they warned, could spiral into violent confrontations, posing a threat to peace and security across the state’s 25 local government areas.
According to the petition, the crisis stems from a leadership struggle between David Nwadi, the former chairman of NURTW Illah Branch D, and Kenile Igwebuike, who was recognized as the legitimate chairman following a Court of Appeal judgment. Despite the court ruling, Nwadi has allegedly refused to step down, prompting intervention attempts from different factions.
The petition alleges that Igwebuike sought military intervention from the 63 Brigade, Asaba, to enforce his chairmanship, while Nwadi secured support from an associate of the Oshimili North LGA Chairman, leading to the involvement of Lieutenant Hamza Shuaib, a military officer, in maintaining Nwadi’s position
The petitioners condemned the alleged use of military personnel in a civil dispute, calling it a violation of the Nigerian Constitution. They also referenced past incidents of alleged military excesses, including claims that Lieutenant Shuaib and his team flogged market women at the Ashi Eke Market, Ibusa, for failing to observe a sanitation exercise.
“The use of armed forces to settle a union leadership dispute is unlawful and must be condemned,” the petition read, warning that if unchecked, the situation could escalate into violent clashes.
The petitioners outlined key demands, including:
Immediate investigation into the alleged military involvement in civil matters.
Withdrawal of military interference in the NURTW crisis and other civil issues.
Disciplinary action against Lieutenant Hamza Shuaib for alleged abuse of power.
Deployment of police and DSS officers to de-escalate tensions and enforce the Court of Appeal ruling.
Intervention by the Delta State Government to maintain law and order.
Avoiding Another Okuama Crisis
The activists cited the 2024 Okuama crisis in Ughelli South, where violent confrontations led to the deaths of several Nigerian Army officers, as a warning of the consequences of failing to act swiftly.
“We trust that this petition will receive the immediate attention it deserves to prevent another security disaster in Delta State,” the petition concluded.
The petition was copied to key stakeholders, including the Delta State Governor, the Department of State Services (DSS), the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the Attorney General of Delta State, and the leadership of the NURTW.