Pa James Oghoroko, the President-General of the Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, has reportedly succumbed to torture and harsh conditions while detained by the military. The news of his death has sparked outrage and grief among community members, who viewed him as a crucial leader.
Oghoroko was among several leaders apprehended by Nigerian military forces starting from August 2024. He was arrested alongside notable figures including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata, between August 18 and 20. They have remained in custody since their arrests under circumstances the community insists are both unjust and unlawful.
The community’s leadership announced Oghoroko’s death during an emergency meeting convened in Okuama. They revealed that Pa Dennis Okugbaye, another community leader still in military detention, is reportedly fighting for his life in an undisclosed military facility, highlighting ongoing concerns over the treatment of detained individuals.
The situation escalated in August following a violent incident in which 17 soldiers lost their lives. In response to the unlawful arrests of their leaders, the community, through their legal representatives, filed a suit (FHC/WR/CS/84/2024) against the Nigerian Army and two other parties, seeking a substantial sum of 100 million naira in damages for their illegal detention.
In previous legal actions aimed at seeking justice and alleviation of the community’s suffering, the Okuama community sought redress at the Federal High Court in Warri, represented by prominent legal figures such as Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN) and several others. The community filed multiple suits, including FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, and FHC/WR/CS/43/2024, which are currently being consolidated as the legal proceedings unfold.
A significant development took place during the last court session on November 20, 2024, when the bail application for the detained leaders was scheduled for further hearing on December 9, 2024. Unfortunately, before this session could take place, Oghoroko passed away on December 4 in military detention, a tragic development that raises questions about the accountability for the treatment of detainees. Since their apprehension, the community leaders had not been formally charged with any crimes, further fueling suspicions of injustice and human rights abuses.
Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, the lead counsel for the detained leaders, expressed his deep dismay upon hearing the news of Oghoroko’s death. “This is deeply troubling news, and our thoughts are with the family during this challenging time,” Akpomudje remarked. He indicated that he would be meeting with Oghoroko’s family and his legal team to discuss potential next steps in seeking justice.
The shocking news of the President-General’s death has profoundly affected the Okuama community, with many residents expressing their sorrow and condemning the inhumane treatment their leaders endured. The community now finds itself in mourning, grappling with the loss of a leader who was seen as a pillar of strength and hope.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains crucial for legal mechanisms to hold accountable those responsible for Oghoroko’s untimely death and to ensure that justice is served for the other detained leaders. The community calls for urgent action to address the broader issues of unlawful detentions and human rights violations.
