Nigerian Army Torture PG of Okuama Community, James Oghoroko, To Death; Others Critically Ill
Nigerian Military Detains Okuama Leaders After Torturing Community President to Death
The Nigerian military has continued to detain five leaders of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, following the alleged torture and death of Pa James Oghoroko, the President-General of the community.
The death of Pa Oghoroko, which occurred in military detention on December 4, 2024, has triggered outrage and heightened tensions in the already fragile community. The incident follows a reprisal attack by military forces earlier in the year after the killing of 17 soldiers during a communal crisis.
Detained Leaders and Legal Battle
The detained community leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata, have been in custody since August 2024 without trial or formal charges. The community had previously filed multiple lawsuits at the Federal High Court in Warri, seeking N100 million in damages for illegal detention and destruction of property during the military’s operation in Okuama.
At the last court hearing on November 20, 2024, the Federal High Court adjourned the bail application for the detained leaders to December 9, 2024. However, Pa Oghoroko died before the scheduled hearing, intensifying calls for accountability and justice.
Uncertainty Surrounding Pa Oghoroko’s Body
There is confusion within the Okuama community over the whereabouts of Pa Oghoroko’s body. It remains unclear whether the military has released his corpse to the family, further compounding the grief and unrest in the community.
Senator Dafinone Condemns Military Actions
Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has condemned the circumstances surrounding Pa Oghoroko’s death. In a statement, he described the incident as a tragic and distressing loss, calling for the immediate release of the five detained leaders.
“Pa James Oghoroko was a respected leader committed to the progress and unity of Okuama. His death is a painful loss to his family, the Okuama people, and Delta Central. I demand the immediate release of the remaining detainees or their formal arraignment in court,” the senator said.
Eyewitness Provides Insights into Okuama Killings, Reveals How Soldiers and Villagers Died
Dafinone criticized the military’s handling of the case, stating that their actions undermine Nigeria’s democracy and the rule of law. He urged the military to cease acting as both prosecutor and judge, emphasizing the importance of upholding fundamental human rights.
Community’s Legal Team Reacts
Chief Albert Akpomudje, SAN, leading the Okuama community’s legal team, described Pa Oghoroko’s death as “disturbing.” He pledged to meet with the family and legal representatives to determine the next steps. The community continues to demand justice for Pa Oghoroko and accountability for the prolonged detention of its leaders.
Growing Calls for Justice
The incident has reignited debates over military overreach and human rights abuses in Nigeria. Advocacy groups and political leaders are calling for an independent investigation and accountability for the actions of the military in Okuama. The situation remains tense as the community mourns its leader while seeking justice and the release of its detained representatives.
