Another Okuama Community Leader Dies in Military Custody

Tensions are rising in Okuama, Delta State, following the recent death of Pa Dennis Okugbaye, the community treasurer, under similar circumstances to those surrounding the death of Okuama’s President General, Pa James Oghoroko. Pa Oghoroko died in military detention just a week ago. The news of Okugbaye’s passing, which broke on Tuesday, has further intensified the already volatile situation in the community.

Okugbaye, 81, was arrested alongside Pa Oghoroko, Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka, all prominent leaders of Okuama. The group was detained by the Nigerian military on August 18 and 20, 2024, and has remained in custody without trial.

Pastor Akpos Okugbaye, the deceased’s son, confirmed his father’s death on Tuesday, revealing that the family had sent over N401,000 for Okugbaye’s medical treatment in the days leading up to his passing. There had been growing concerns within the community about Okugbaye’s health following Pa Oghoroko’s death, with locals calling for his release before his condition worsened.

A military medical report dated December 6, 2024, reportedly recommended Okugbaye’s release due to his age and declining health. However, the authorities ignored the recommendation, and he remained in detention until his death.

In response to the deaths, hundreds of Okuama residents staged a peaceful protest on Sunday in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. The protesters, including women and youths, condemned the deaths of their leaders in military custody and demanded the immediate release of the remaining five detained community leaders. They also called for the return of Pa Oghoroko’s body.

The protesters issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government and military authorities, warning that failure to release the detained leaders and return Oghoroko’s body would force them to take matters into their own hands.