The President-General of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Pa James Oghoroko, has reportedly died while in military detention, according to Vanguard.
Pa Oghoroko was arrested between August 18 and 20, 2024, alongside other community leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, and Pa Dennis Okugbaye. These arrests followed a violent incident in the community that resulted in the deaths of 17 soldiers, prompting a military crackdown.
In response to what they described as unlawful detentions, the Okuama community filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian Army, seeking N100 million in damages. The Federal High Court had scheduled a hearing on the bail application for the detained leaders on December 9, 2024.
Tragically, Pa Oghoroko passed away just days before the hearing. His death has plunged the Okuama community into mourning, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.
Community leaders convened an emergency meeting to address the loss and the ongoing situation. Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, the lead counsel for the detained leaders, expressed his shock and sorrow over the incident.
"This is truly disturbing news," Akpomudje stated. "I will meet with the family and my legal team to determine our next steps."