The Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, is in mourning following the death of its President-General, Pa James Oghoroko.
AFRIPOST gathered that Oghoroko, who had been in military custody since August 2024, succumbed to alleged torture and mistreatment during detention.
Oghoroko was arrested alongside other community leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata, between August 18 and 20. All have remained in custody since their apprehension.
The community disclosed Oghoroko’s death during an emergency meeting and also raised concerns about the deteriorating health of another detained leader, Pa Dennis Okugbaye.
In response, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN, the lead counsel representing the community, expressed deep concern over the incident and stated that he would consult with Oghoroko’s family to determine the next course of action.
The arrests followed the destruction of the Okuama community by the military after the killing of 17 soldiers. Seeking justice, the community, through its legal team led by Akpomudje, filed consolidated suits (Suit Nos. FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, and FHC/WR/CS/43/2024) at the Federal High Court in Warri.
At the court’s last session on November 20, 2024, the bail application for the detained leaders was adjourned until December 9, 2024, for further hearings.