Okpanam Community Debunks Claims Linking Arrested Suspect to Development Fee Collection

By Odih Christian Udoka

The people of Okpanam, particularly residents of Obodogba Quarters, have strongly distanced themselves from a viral social media video showing a young man who was reportedly intercepted by officers of the Delta State Police Command while in possession of a firearm.

According to reports circulating online, the suspect allegedly claimed during interrogation that he used the gun to collect what he described as a “development fee” from clients who purchased land in the area. The statement has since generated widespread reactions and discussions across various social media platforms.

However, community leaders and concerned residents of Okpanam have categorically rejected the claims, insisting that the suspect’s statements should not be used to tarnish the image of the town or its people. While it has been acknowledged that the individual is from Okpanam, specifically Obodogba Quarters, residents maintain that his alleged actions were carried out in a personal capacity and do not reflect the values or practices of the community.

The community further emphasized that neither the Youth Chairman nor any recognized indigene of Okpanam goes about collecting money from land buyers with the use of firearms. They also clarified that there is no levy or fee known as “deve” or “development fee” being collected in the manner described by the suspect.

Residents have therefore urged the public to disregard any attempt to associate the community with the allegations made by the arrested individual. They stressed that Okpanam remains a peaceful and law-abiding community that does not support criminal activities or any form of extortion.

The community has called on the Delta State Police Command to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter and ensure that the suspect faces the full weight of the law if found guilty. They reiterated that justice should be based on verified facts and evidence, rather than unsubstantiated claims capable of damaging the reputation of an entire community.