Breaking: When Fire Burns, Only Peace Can Rebuild: The Story of Akpata Community

When Fire Burns, Only Peace Can Rebuild: The Story of Akpata Community.

By Prince Agbedeyi O. D.

Egbema Egberi Media special correspondent 

Last week, a shocking attack rocked Akpata Community in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State. Suspected Itsekiri youths from the nearby Omadino axis launched a swift and devastating assault, setting the entire settlement ablaze. The destruction was swift and merciless — homes turned to ashes, and the vital Akpata Unit Well 10 oil facility, protected by Tantita Security Services, was heavily damaged.

For the residents, it wasn’t just buildings that were lost. Chief Owei, a respected elder, captured their pain: “The fire didn’t just burn bricks and wood — it burned our sense of safety and shattered our trust.” Families fled, markets emptied, and what once was a thriving community now lies in ruins.

What Sparked the Fire?

While investigations are ongoing, the attack highlights a deeper tension that has simmered for years: competition over land, resources, and ethnic rivalry in the oil-rich Niger Delta. But the real tragedy is how quickly these tensions can spiral into violence that hurts everyone — young and old, rich and poor, host communities and visitors alike.

Pastor Isaac Ayedi, a local mediator, wisely said, “We all belong to one Niger Delta family. The challenge is learning to share our resources and respect one another’s space.” His words remind us that the conflicts aren’t about ‘us vs. them’ — they are a call to listen and understand.

A Message from the Heart: To Our Youths

Young people are the future, the builders and leaders of tomorrow. Yet too often, frustration and neglect push some down the wrong path. Chief Owei’s plea is simple but powerful: “Lay down your weapons. Pick up education, trade, and community building. Violence destroys; peace creates.”

And Mrs. Edet, a local trader affected by the attack, adds, “Hear the youths. Give them a seat at the table. Their voices must be part of the solution.”

What Role Should the Government Play?

Security forces have a duty to protect, but that’s only part of the solution. True peace requires sincere dialogue — involving elders, youth groups, women’s organizations, and government officials alike. Pastor Ayedi calls for “peace talks that include all stakeholders” to create lasting harmony.

Hope Flickers in the Darkness

Despite the destruction, Akpata is not defeated. Volunteers have begun relief efforts, and community leaders are reaching out to neighboring groups to rebuild trust. This resilience is a beacon of hope, reminding us that while fire can destroy, peace can rebuild stronger and brighter.

What Can You Do?

Raise Awareness: Share stories like this to keep the conversation going.

Promote Dialogue: Encourage peaceful conversations in your communities.

Support Victims: Contribute to relief efforts for displaced families.

Advocate for Peace: Demand government action for sustainable peace initiatives.

At Egbema Egberi Media, we believe in the power of peace — not just to prevent fires, but to heal communities and create a future where every child can grow up safe and hopeful.

Let’s choose peace. Because when fire burns, only peace can rebuild.