From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
One hundred and ninety- three persons who went into exile from Opu- Nembe community in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa due to the crisis that rocked the community in 2022 have returned home.
The crisis in Opu-Nembe had pitched different segments of the community against one another culminating in the deployment of a special Police team by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to prevent a total breakdown of law and order.
However, some of the principal actors after meeting with stakeholeders in the community decided to retrace their steps, sought forgiveness, and returned to the community to sign a peace accord.
In a carnival-like reception at the Opu-Nembe Civil Centre, the returnees were received by the Chairman, Opu-Nembe Council of Chiefs, Chief Yousuo Donald Theo-Iruo, and scores of happy family members and friends.
Chief Theo- Iruo who commended their decision to seek forgiveness and return home said peace has come to stay in the community.
He said the community would continue to open its arms to receive as many that are willing to return home and enjoy the peace in the community.
Chief Theo-Iruo noted that with the establishment of the Federal University in the community, all hands are needed on deck to ensure a smooth take-off of the tertiary institution.
‘’ Those who took this bold step to come and reconcile with their people after the turmoil deserve commendation. Today is one of the best days that cannot be forgotten in a hurry. We believe that this peace we are looking for has come to stay. It is from our hearts. Anybody who desires to come back home and join this peace initiative is free to do so, the doors are still open,’’ he said.
Also speaking the youth president, Nembe Youth Federation, Toinpre Sambo assured those still on self-exile to return home and join hands to build the community.
“Those still on self-exile should come back home. We assured them that we have put the past crisis behind us. The peace that returned to this community will endure. They went on self-exile by themselves, so they should come back home.’’
A member of the Opu-Nembe peace reconciliation committee, Aseomiegha Orusakwe commended those who created the atmosphere of peace that has made those who went on self-exile return home.
One of the returnees and a key initiator of the peace process, Hon Fredrick Amiefamonyo Braide while giving glory to God for the peace process said the crisis has retarded development in the community.
According to him, it was his love for the community and the importance of peace to development that inspired him to initiate the peace process.