NPDC Pipeline Attack: Okowa's Aide, Two Others Arrested

BEVERLY HILLS, July 24, (THEWILL) – Soldiers of the 222 Battalion of Nigeria Army, Agbarha-Otor, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State have arrested one Mr. Monday Owhesiri, said to be the Special Assistant on Youth and Community Development to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State.

Owhesiri was arrested for allegedly masterminding Thursday's blowing up of the gas pipeline at Ighwrenene community, Ughelli North local government area of the state.

Sources told THEWILL that the aide was arrested in company of three of his acquaintances having a good time in his hotel room along Ughelli/Patani road.

An official of the battalion who confided in THEWILL correspondent said the Governor’s aide was arrested following a tip-off by two other persons earlier arrested in connection with the explosion.

The Army sources further said that since the arrest, Governor Okowa has been pressuring the military in the state for their release.

Sources told THEWILL that following the pressure from the governor, an earlier press briefing called by the Commanding Officer of 222 Battalion, Lt. Col Mathew Oyekola, concerning the arrests made was abruptly called off stating that there was no need to speak with the press since investigation was still ongoing.

All efforts to reach Owhesiri, who also doubles as the state chairman of vigilantes, proved abortive while the Commanding Officer of 222 Battalion, Lt. Col Mathew Oyekola, declined comments saying the Army's image maker would be coming from Warri to speak on the issue.