Delta senators flay death of Okuama president general in military facility

…Tell authorities to charge other detained to civil court

The reportedly death of Pa James Ogboroko, the President-General of Okuama Development Association, Ughelli South Local Government Area, in military facility has sparked condemnation against the Nigerian Army for being a judge in its own case.

The PG was arrested in August alongside five others, few months after they were declared wanted by the military over the tragic death of 17 military personnel that were in Okuama on a mission.

Ogboroko reportedly died on Wednesday and the news spread like a wild fire that some indigenes of Okuama were pained considering the fact that the family of deceased would first read or hear it on social media rather than being directly informed.

In his reaction, Ede Dafinone, senator representing Delta Central District in the National Assembly, called on the Military authorities to release unconditionally Arthur Ekpekpo, a professor; Belvis Adogbo, a chief ; Pa. Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Rita Akata (Mrs) who were arrested between August 18 and 20, 2024, as a fallout of the Okuama crisis or charge them to a civil court.

According to him, the current posture of the military authority where they have assumed the position of prosecutor and the judge in their case, does not speak well for Nigeria’s democracy.

Dafinone, who recalled that he had written to the military authority on the need to respect the rights of the arrested Okuama leaders, bemoaned the death of Pa Oghoroko in military detention.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, President-General of the Okuama community, who died in military custody under distressing circumstances. Pa Oghoroko was a respected leader, dedicated to the progress and unity of Okuama.

“His demise is a painful loss to his family, the Okuama people, and Delta Central as a whole. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Okuama community during this difficult time. May God grant them the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss.

“Whilst we await the official confirmation from the military authorities, the death of Pa Oghoroko in detention also calls into question the conditions under which prisoners are held by the Nigerian Army and in particular the continued good health of the remaining detainees from Okuama in Ughelli South, he said.

“If there are allegations against these individuals, they must be charged to a competent civil court for a fair trial. The continued detention of these community leaders without trial violates their fundamental human rights and undermines the rule of law.

“The military’s current stance—acting as both accuser and judge—sets a dangerous precedent that is incompatible with Nigeria’s democratic ideals. Our democracy rests on the pillars of justice, equity, and due process, and any deviation from these principles erodes public confidence in our institutions. I urge the military to prioritise transparency and accountability, as they are essential for national unity and progress.