Pa James Oghoroko, President-General of Okuama Community in Delta State, has died in military custody, reportedly due to torture. Oghoroko was detained along with other leaders in August 2024. His death has sparked outrage in the community, which has been seeking legal redress for the unlawful detentions.
Pa James Oghoroko, the President-General of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, has died in military custody. His death, allegedly caused by torture and inhumane treatment, was confirmed by community leaders during an emergency meeting. Oghoroko had been detained alongside other community leaders in August 2024 after their arrests by the Nigerian military. Among those detained were Professor Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata.
Oghoroko’s death follows a series of legal actions taken by the Okuama community, who had previously filed lawsuits against the Nigerian Army seeking compensation for the unlawful detentions. The community also sought redress after the demolition of Okuama, which occurred after the killing of 17 soldiers. Pa Dennis Okugbaye, another detained community leader, is reported to be in critical condition.
The legal team representing the community, led by Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN), had filed multiple suits, including one seeking bail for the arrested leaders. The Federal High Court had adjourned a hearing on their bail applications to December 9, 2024, but before that date, Oghoroko passed away on December 4, 2024, without ever being formally charged. His death has shocked the community and drawn expressions of anger and grief from the people.
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