In a landmark step towards reconciliation and unity, Oleri Community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State has resolved its protracted leadership crisis, following a peace meeting convened by the Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Hon. Vincent Oyibode.
The meeting, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Udu Council Secretariat, Otor-Udu, brought together elders, elites, youth leaders, and other stakeholders of Oleri Community. It provided a platform for open dialogue aimed at addressing the discord that had threatened community cohesion in recent months.
In his address, Oyibode emphasized that peace is the foundation of development, urging all factions to put aside grievances and work collectively for the growth of Oleri. ‘The time has come for Oleri Community to turn a new page. Peace is the only path to progress. Let us put the past behind us and focus on building a united, peaceful, and prosperous community,’ he said.
After extensive deliberations, stakeholders unanimously resolved to embrace peace, forgiveness, and mutual respect. They identified disrespect for community institutions as the root of the leadership tussle. Consequently, the President of Oleri Community, Mr. Paul Rhota, and his Vice President, Chief Austine Ubido, were suspended for two months for acts of misconduct and usurpation of authority. Both leaders admitted their faults, tendered apologies, and were forgiven in the spirit of reconciliation.
The Elders’ Council Secretary, Pa. Michael Kokoye, was appointed Acting President during the suspension period, with Mr. Rhota scheduled to resume duties on December 7, 2025. To forestall future disputes, the community also adopted new measures to regulate land and property transactions, mandating the approval of all sales by community organs and the adoption of Town Hall Meetings for transparency.
Oyibode further directed the Acting President to convene regular Town Hall Meetings for leadership reports, financial accountability, and administrative updates.
The reconciliation meeting was attended by dignitaries, including Evangelist Andrew Dorkie, President General of the Udu Union of Communities (UUC); Comrade Omoko Vincent, Supervisor for Finance, Udu Local Government Council; and Hon. Sophia Gbejegbe, among others.
The resolutions were widely commended as a bold step towards sustainable peace and unity in Oleri. Stakeholders applauded Oyibode for his outstanding mediation skills and unwavering commitment to peace and grassroots development across Udu Local Government Area.
