Okuama President-General, who was arrested in the wake of killing of Soldiers, dies in Military custody
Okuama President-General, who was arrested in the wake of killing of Soldiers, dies in Military custody
Pa James Oghoroko, the President-General of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, has reportedly passed away following torture and alleged inhumane treatment while in military detention.
Oghoroko, a prominent community leader, was among several individuals arrested by the Nigerian military in August 2024.
He was detained along with other community leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata, between August 18 and 20, and had been held in custody since then. The tragic news of his death was confirmed during an emergency meeting held by community leaders.
The community also revealed that Pa Dennis Okugbaye, another detained leader, is currently in critical condition in an undisclosed military facility.
In August, following their arrest, the Okuama community, through their legal representatives, filed a lawsuit (No: FHC/WR/CS/84/2024) against the Nigerian Army, demanding ₦100 million in compensation for the illegal detention of its leaders.
The community had previously sought legal redress after the demolition of Okuama following the deaths of 17 soldiers. Through their lawyers, led by Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN), the community filed multiple suits (Suit Nos. FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024), which are now being consolidated. On November 20, 2024, the Federal High Court adjourned the bail application for the arrested leaders, with a new hearing scheduled for December 9, 2024.
Tragically, before the return date, Oghoroko passed away on December 4 in military detention, without ever being charged in court since his arrest.
Reacting to the news, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje expressed his deep concern, calling the development disturbing and indicating plans to meet with the family and his legal team to determine the next steps.
The death of Pa James Oghoroko has deeply shaken the Okuama community, plunging the family into mourning. Anger and sorrow swept through the community, as local youths were seen gathered, visibly upset by the tragic loss of their leader.
