In a landmark move to foster unity and sustainable development, the Oleri Community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State has successfully resolved its lingering leadership crisis.
A peace and reconciliation meeting held on Tuesday, at the Udu Council Secretariat, Otor-Udu, as convened by Hon. Vincent Oyibode, Chairman, Udu Local Government Council, brought together elders, youth leaders, elites, and stakeholders to address tensions threatening the community’s harmony.
In his opening address, Hon. Oyibode emphasized peace as the foundation for progress, urging residents to set aside personal differences and work collectively for Oleri’s advancement.
According to him; “the time has come for Oleri Community to turn a new page. Peace is the only path to progress,” He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to unity and stability across Udu.
The meeting pinpointed disrespect, disregard, and usurpation of authority by the community’s President, Mr. Paul Rhota, and Vice President, Chief Austine Ubido, as key drivers of the leadership tussle.
Following open dialogue, both leaders admitted their misconduct, issued apologies, and sought forgiveness, which the community graciously accepted in the spirit of reconciliation.
As a resolution, Rhota and Ubido were suspended for two months, with Pa. Michael Kokoye, Secretary of the Elders’ Council, appointed to act as President until Rhota resumes office on December 7, 2025.
To ensure transparency and prevent future disputes, the community adopted stringent measures for land and property transactions. These include reclaiming unlawfully sold community lands, particularly school lands, and mandating that all land and sand transactions require approval from the Elders’ Council, Executive Committee, Youth Body, Middle-Aged Forum, and Women’s Wing, with finalization at Town Hall Meetings.
Additionally, Pa. Kokoye was tasked with convening regular Town Hall Meetings to present leadership reports, financial statements, and administrative updates, promoting accountability.
The meeting, attended by notable figures including Evangelist Andrew Dorkie, President General of the Udu Union of Communities, and Comrade Omoko Vincent, Supervisor for Finance, was hailed as a turning point for Oleri.
Stakeholders praised Hon. Oyibode’s mediation skills and dedication to grassroots development, describing the resolutions as a bold step toward reconciliation and trust-building.
The Oleri Community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and transparent governance signals a new era of unity and progress, setting a model for conflict resolution in Udu Local Government Area.
BY SAM DUVWODE
