The President-General of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Pa James Oghoroko, has reportedly died as a result of torture and inhumane treatment while in military detention.
Oghoroko was among several community leaders arrested by the Nigerian military in August 2024.
He was detained along with Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata between August 18 and 20, and had remained in custody since then.
His death was announced by community leaders during an emergency meeting held in Okuama.
The community also revealed that Pa Dennis Okugbaye, another leader still in detention, is currently fighting for his life in an undisclosed military facility.
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In August, after the illegal arrests, the community, through their lawyers, filed a lawsuit (FHC/WR/CS/84/2024) against the Nigerian Army and two other defendants, demanding N100 million for the unlawful detention of its leaders.
This follows previous legal actions taken after the destruction of Okuama community, which occurred following the deaths of 17 soldiers.
The community had sought redress through suits filed by their lawyers, including Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN). The suits, numbered FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, and FHC/WR/CS/43/2024, are now being consolidated.
On November 20, 2024, the Federal High Court had adjourned the bail application for the detained leaders to December 9, 2024.
Tragically, before this date, Pa Oghoroko passed away in military custody on December 4, 2024, without ever being formally charged in court.
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Reacting to the news, lead counsel Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN) expressed deep concern, calling the situation troubling. He stated that he would meet with the family and his legal team to discuss the next steps.
The death of Oghoroko has sparked grief and outrage in the Okuama community, with residents mourning the loss and community youths expressing their anger over the tragedy.
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