According to Vanguard, Pa James Oghoroko, the president-general of Okuama Community in Delta State’s Ughelli South Local Government Area, passed away while in military custody.
Between August 18 and August 20, 2024, Pa Oghoroko and other community leaders, such as Pa Dennis Okugbaye, Chief Belvis Adogbo, and Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, were taken into custody.
These arrests followed military action in the community following a violent incident that claimed the lives of 17 soldiers.
Outraged by the arbitrary arrests, the Okuama community sued the Nigerian Army, claiming they were wrongfully detained and demanding N100 million.
In its most recent session on November 20, 2024, the Federal High Court postponed hearing the arrested leaders’ bail application until December 9, 2024.
Regretfully, Oghoroko passed away unexpectedly a few days prior to the bail hearing.
The Okuama community has been devastated by the news of Pa Oghoroko’s death, and many people have expressed their sorrow and rage.
To address the tragedy, local leaders convened an emergency meeting.
Olorogun Lead attorney for the leaders in custody, Albert Akpomudje, said he was saddened by the loss.
“This news is really upsetting. To decide on our next course of action, I will meet with my team and family,” he stated.