Okuama community mourns as President-General, Pa James Oghoroko dies in Military custody

The Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, is in mourning following the death of its President-General, Pa James Oghoroko.

Oghoroko, one of the community leaders arrested by the Nigerian military in August 2024, reportedly died due to torture and inhumane treatment while in detention.

Pa Oghoroko was apprehended along with other leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata, between August 18 and 20, 2024. He had been held in military custody since his arrest.

In an emergency meeting held in the community, Okuama leaders confirmed Oghoroko’s death. They also disclosed that Pa Dennis Okugbaye, another leader in military detention, is currently fighting for his life in an undisclosed military facility.

Olorogun Albert Akpomudje SAN, the lead counsel for the community, expressed deep concern over the news of Oghoroko’s death. He stated he would meet with the family to discuss the next steps.

In response to the destruction of Okuama following the killing of 17 soldiers, the community, with legal representation from Olorogun Akpomudje SAN and other lawyers, filed legal suits in the Federal High Court, Warri, seeking justice. The suits, which include case numbers FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, and FHC/WR/CS/43/2024, have been consolidated.

During the last court sitting on November 20, 2024, the bail application for the detained leaders was adjourned to December 9, 2024, for further hearing.