According to him, “respected political, traditional, religious, women and youth leaders within and without Isoko need to preach restraint, de-escalate the situation and help to quickly restore genuine peace to the land.”
He said it is by divine order that Isoko and Urhobo are historical good neighbours with strong filial, marital and lingual affinities, pointing out that “whatever touches Isoko touches Urhobo, and vice versa.”
The deputy senate president added that he’s genuinely concerned about the reported killings and bloody violence, and is ready to do whatever that is necessary for peace to reign.
He also recognised the all-important duty of the state government to maintain internal security and therefore called Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and his team, to work diligently to ensure that acts that are capable of leading to more bloodshed or violence are responsibly, urgently and sustainably curtailed.
“There is no alternative to peace. Where there are perceived injustices or wrongs, lawful processes should be followed. Isoko’s unity and progress are on trial and it is the duty of all responsible leaders and stakeholders to ensure these common interests are not sacrificed on the altars of violent reprisals and in-fighting.
“Let all persons involved in this matter cooperate with both the Local and State governments as well as relevant federal authorities to restore and maintain the peace in Isoko,” he said.
Omo-Agege expressed his readiness to engage with Senator James Manager representing Delta South Senatorial District and other leaders on the matter for the overall good of the people.
In the meantime, he has directed his Senior Special Assistant on Security Matters, Col. Melvin Usman (rtd), to immediately liaise with relevant authorities and stakeholders on the de-escalation of the situation.