The President-General of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, one of the leaders arrested by the Nigerian military in August 2024, has reportedly died due to alleged torture and inhumane treatment while in military custody.
The late Oghoroko, serving as the President-General of the Okuama community, was arrested alongside Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata between August 18 and 20, 2024. Since their arrest, they have been detained in undisclosed locations.
The tragic news of his death was disclosed by Okuama community leaders during an emergency meeting held yesterday, after over three months in most dehumanizing detination.
Community leaders also reported that Pa Dennis Okugbaye, another detainee, is currently in critical condition in the same undisclosed military facility.
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Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko,[/caption]
In response to these arrests, the community, through its legal representatives, had filed suit No. FHC/WR/CS/84/2024—James Oghoroko & Others vs. the Nigerian Army & Others—demanding ₦100 million in damages for their unlawful detention.
The arrests followed the demolition and destruction of the Okuama community in the aftermath of the killing of 17 soldiers. Subsequently, the community approached the Federal High Court in Warri, filing suit No. FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, No. FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, and No. FHC/WR/CS/43/2024, seeking legal redress. These cases have since been consolidated.
At its last session on November 20, 2024, the Federal High Court adjourned the bail application for the detained leaders to December 9, 2024. However, before the scheduled hearing, Pa James Oghoroko tragically passed away on December 4, 2024, still in custody and without being formally charged.
Reacting to the development, lead counsel Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN) expressed deep concern, describing the news as "disturbing." He stated that he would consult with the family and his legal team to determine the next steps.
The death of the Okuama community's President-General has plunged the community into mourning and sparked outrage. Family members are grief-stricken, while community youths, visibly angered, were seen discussing the tragedy in somber tones.
