Pa James Oghoroko, the President-General of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, has reportedly died under alleged torture and inhumane conditions while in military detention. Oghoroko was one of several community leaders arrested by the Nigerian military in August 2024.
Alongside Oghoroko, other detainees include Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata. All were taken into custody between August 18 and 20 and have remained detained without trial.
The news of Oghoroko’s death was disclosed during an emergency meeting convened by the leaders of Okuama Community. The community further revealed that another detainee, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, is reportedly gravely ill in an undisclosed military facility.
In response to the arrests, the community, through their legal representatives, filed a lawsuit (No: FHC/WR/CS/84/2024) against the Nigerian Army and two others, seeking ₦100 million in damages for the unlawful detentions. This followed earlier suits filed at the Federal High Court in Warri (No: FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024), aimed at addressing the military’s demolition and destruction of Okuama in the aftermath of an incident involving the killing of 17 soldiers.
The court had scheduled December 9, 2024, for a hearing on the bail applications of the detained leaders. However, Oghoroko’s death on December 4, 2024, came before the scheduled hearing, marking a grim development in the legal and humanitarian concerns surrounding the case.
Lead counsel for the community, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN), described the news as deeply troubling. He stated that he would consult with the deceased’s family and legal team to determine the next course of action.
Oghoroko’s death has plunged the Okuama community into mourning, with widespread sadness and anger among residents. Youths in the area were reportedly seen in somber discussions, reflecting the community’s collective grief and displeasure over the tragedy.
