Soldiers allegedly torture young man to death in Idoma community

The Member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on National Inland Waterways, Ojotu Ojema, has strongly condemned the alleged killing of a youth, Ernest Owoicho, by personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) deployed to Apa Local Government Area in Benue State.

It was gathered that Owoicho was reportedly arrested by the military on Saturday, April 5, 2025, and died in custody in the early hours of Sunday, April 6. Signs of torture were allegedly visible on his body, raising suspicions of abuse while in detention.

Upon hearing the news, Ojema cut short his trip to Abuja and immediately visited the OPWS base in Ugbokpo, the LGA headquarters, to confirm the incident.

Describing the death as “gruesome,” Ojema called for a thorough investigation to identify and prosecute the culprits. He urged security agencies to uphold the law and human rights and assured the deceased’s family of his full support.

In addition, Ojema directed that welfare checks be carried out on the two children left behind by Owoicho to determine how assistance could be provided to them.

While urging the residents of Apa, especially the youth, to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, he reiterated his commitment to seeking justice for his constituents.

“I have the mandate to stand, speak, and defend the people of Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency at the National Assembly. There are several civil ways of investigating a case other than torture, especially in this democratic era. The gruesome murder of this young man is highly condemnable, and the culprits will not go unpunished. While I stand against any form of criminality, I cannot accept the intimidation and unjustifiable killing of my people,” Ojema stated, according to his media aide, Olikita Ekani.

In tears, a relative of the deceased, Peter Ibrama, lamented the loss, describing Owoicho as a gentle and jovial young man. He expressed shock over receiving only the deceased’s corpse after his arrest.

Responding, the OPWS commander, who declined to be named, expressed regret over the incident, stating that the unfortunate outcome of the investigation process was not intentional. He assured the federal lawmaker that an internal inquiry would be launched immediately, and anyone found culpable would be held accountable.

Owoicho, an orphan, is survived by two young sons.