Niger Delta Activists Urge Military To Transfer Okuama Case To Civilian Authorities

Niger Delta Activists Urge Military To Transfer Okuama Case To Civilian Authorities

The Delta State Government has announced that it has not received confirmation from the military regarding the death of 81-year-old Pa Dennis Okugbaye, the Treasurer of Okuama Community in Ughelli South…READ MORE…

Local Government Area. This statement comes in light of increasing condemnation from various stakeholders following reports that Okugbaye died in military detention on Tuesday, just six days after the community’s President General, Pa James Oghoroko, also passed away in custody.

Reacting to the situation, Delta State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, stated, “The military has not informed the state government about any other deaths apart from the first one. We cannot make speculations at this stage.”

Calls for Investigation

Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President of the Conference of Presidents-General of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities, condemned the military’s actions in the Okuama community, calling for a thorough investigation, including an autopsy for the deceased. He expressed outrage at the lack of professionalism during the military’s operations in the community, which he described as shocking and disturbing.

Niger Delta activist Charles Tejiri urged the military to allow police to conduct an investigation into the incident rather than continuing military detentions. He expressed concerns over the deaths of two prominent community figures while in military custody and called for the release of others still held.

Concerns Over the Justice System

Mr. Saviour Akpan, Executive Director of COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peace Building, criticized the failure of the justice system, questioning the delay in trial for the detained community leaders. He emphasized the need for a more efficient justice system and urged the government to provide updates on the military’s operations in the area.

Political activist Mr. Blessing Adima asserted the need for accountability from military leadership regarding the deaths during detention, highlighting the violation of civilian rights in a democratic setting.

Retired President of the Delta State Area Customary Court, Miakpor Emiaso, lamented the deaths of the Okuama leaders and highlighted the reflection of grave systemic issues within detention facilities.

Support from Urhobo Association in the US

In a show of solidarity, the Urhobo Association of Washington DC has sent relief supplies to the displaced residents of Okuama and called for the urgent rebuilding of the community devastated by military actions following the killing of 17 soldiers. The association provided essential food items and toiletries to those affected, expressing heartfelt condolences for the lost lives and the ongoing hardships faced by the community.

Dr. Festus Sowho, President of the Urhobo Association of Washington DC, assured residents of their support and commitment to advocating for justice and peace for all Urhobo communities.

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