The Nigerian Army is set to release its findings on the reported deaths of two Okuama community leaders, Pa James Oghoroko and Dennis Okugbaye, who allegedly died while in military custody. This development comes after widespread media reports cited credible sources claiming that the deaths occurred under questionable circumstances.
In response to the allegations, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter. The probe, directed to the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, aims to establish the facts and provide clarity on the claims.
Breaking his silence on the issue, the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, confirmed that the Defence Headquarters had taken the matter seriously, mandating the investigation to conclude swiftly. Speaking at the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee end-of-year briefing, Gusau emphasized that the Army remains committed to transparency.
“Over the weekend, reports surfaced suggesting that individuals detained in connection with the Okuama incident had died while in custody,” Gusau said. “The Chief of Defence Staff immediately directed the 6 Division to investigate and submit their findings. As of now, these remain allegations, but we are committed to uncovering the truth.”
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He further noted that the Army expects the report to be submitted by Monday (today), promising more details on whether the claims hold merit or are unfounded.
He said the move is to show the Army’s efforts to maintain accountability and public trust amid growing concerns surrounding the incident. The Okuama case has drawn national attention, with calls for justice and transparency echoing across various quarters.
While awaiting the findings, the military continues to face scrutiny, with stakeholders urging a thorough and unbiased investigation into the circumstances that led to the alleged deaths.
