IYC shuts down Rainoil Filling Station to protest killing of Ijaw youth in Delta, demands for justice
By Silvia Oribhabor
Members of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), on Monday took to DSC Expressway in protest over the killing of one of their own, identified as Tammy Okubama, allegedly killed by Police in Ebrumede, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
It was learnt that Tammy Okubama was beaten and tied up by Police at Rain Oil filling station, until he lost consciousness, before the same policemen took him to hospital, where he died.
GbaramatuVoice gathered that Tammy Okubama, who recently returned from Europe died on the 25th of August, 2023. While the circumstances surrounding his death ignited anger and sorrow among the Ijaw youths.
A source told GbaramatuVoice that, police initially accused Tammy Okubama of stealing a motor battery, but his sister, countered the claim. She explained that her brother was going to work around 5am, when he was stopped and accused.
This assertion raises questions about the legitimacy of the accusations against Tammy and the need for a thorough investigation.
An eyewitness, who courageously stepped forward, confirmed that Tammy was beaten to death and tied up until he lost consciousness. “Shockingly, it was the same policemen who took him to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead, the eyewitness,” added.
However, the aggrieved youths who stormed the filling station on Monday were armed with placards carrying different inscriptions demanding for justice. While they lamented that both Rain Oil Filling Station and the Nigerian Police Force be held accountable for the death of Tammy Okubama.
One of the protesters voiced the sentiments of many when she said, “We want justice, we want justice. He just came back from Europe, and we don’t know why he died.” Her tears mirrored the collective anguish that has gripped the community since Tammy’s passing.
A man emphasized their determination, stating, “We are not going anywhere. We want justice.” His voice resonated with conviction, representing the unwavering spirit of the Ijaw youths.
Former legal adviser of the IYC, Ebilade Obiri, asserted that an injustice to one Ijaw youth is an injustice to all Ijaw youths.
“An injustice to one Ijaw youth is an injustice to all Ijaw youth. Kills an Ijaw youth for no reason, we are going to take over every Rain Oil in Delta State. We are going to eat there, sleep there, occupy there,” he said.
While, Ambassador Collins, an Ijaw youth, drew parallels to previous tragic events, saying, “What happened during the end SARS protests is happening again. They are meant to protect us but they are killing us.” His words serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for accountability and reform within the Nigerian Police Force.
Jonathan Lokeobiri, the President of the IYC, challenged the police’s actions, questioning why Tammy was tortured to death rather than being arrested and presented before the law.
He demanded transparency and accountability, asking, “Are these policemen under your detention? If not, why are they working freely?” His call for answers reflects the frustration and anger felt by the Ijaw youth.
Meanwhile, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) incharge of Ebrumede Police Division, CSP Ndifreka Iwok, who was present at the scene assured the protesters of justice.
“We have ordered a full investigation, the suspects are with the Deputy Commissioner of Police in Asaba. I ensure this matter won’t be swept under the carpet.
Dr. Doubra Okotete, Chairman of IYC, Western Zone, expressed concern about the police’s seriousness in handling the case. He cautioned that if positive results were not seen by the end of the week, the DPO would be held responsible.
“This ultimatum underscores the determination of the Ijaw youth to see justice served and holds the authorities accountable for their actions,” he added.
See some photos below:
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