The Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State has been thrown into mourning and outrage following the alleged death of its 81-year-old treasurer, Dennis Okugbaye, while in military detention. This devastating development comes just six days after the death of the community’s President General, 72-year-old Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, who also passed away in custody.
The arrest of Okuama leaders, including Okugbaye, Oghoroko, Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka, occurred between August 18 and 20, 2024. They were reportedly detained without trial at undisclosed military facilities, a situation that has drawn increasing criticism from the community and human rights advocates.
The death of Okugbaye was reportedly confirmed by his son, Pastor Akpos Okugbaye, who recounted the heartbreaking moment he learned of his father’s passing. According to him, repeated attempts to contact his father were unsuccessful as his phone lines were switched off. Later, he was informed that his father had died after falling critically ill during his detention. Reports suggest that Okugbaye passed away while being transported from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, back to a military facility.
The news has intensified tensions in Okuama, with residents accusing the military of gross negligence and inhumane treatment of their detained leaders. The earlier death of Pa Oghoroko had already sparked outrage, with community members decrying the lack of transparency and due process in the arrests and detentions.
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Adding to the confusion, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe, Secretary General of the Ewu Clan Development Forum, stated that Okugbaye’s death had not been officially confirmed. His comments have further fueled uncertainty and anxiety among the Okuama people, who are now demanding answers and justice.
The community is calling for the immediate release of their detained leaders or a clear legal process to address the allegations against them. The deaths of two prominent leaders in such a short time frame have left the community grief-stricken and deeply mistrustful of the authorities.
As anger and sorrow grip Okuama, the spotlight is once again on the alleged mistreatment of detainees in military custody. The calls for accountability grow louder, as the community awaits clarity on these tragic events.
