By Austin Ogwuda
THE Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District at the Nigerian Senate, Senator Ede Dafinone has lambasted the Military over the detention of some prominent leaders in their ‘guardroom’ without trial in connection with the ill-fated Okuama bloodbath.
He pointed out that “The military’s current stance—acting as both accuser and judge—sets a dangerous precedent that is incompatible with Nigeria’s democratic ideals”.
Dafinone stated this in a condolence message to the Okuama people and the family of late President-General, Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, one of the leaders arrested by the Nigerian military in August 2024, who reportedly died in Military custody.
According to him, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, President-General of the Okuama community, who died in military custody under distressing circumstances. Pa Oghoroko was a respected leader, dedicated to the progress and unity of Okuama.
“His demise is a painful loss to his family, the Okuama people, and Delta Central as a whole. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Okuama community during this difficult time. May God grant them the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss, Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, President-General of the Okuama community
“While grieving this unfortunate incident”, he went on, “I strongly call on the Military authorities to unconditionally release Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs Rita Akata, who were detained alongside Pa Oghoroko following the Okuama crisis.
“Whilst we await the official confirmation from the Military authorities, the death of Pa Oghoroko in detention also calls into question the conditions under which prisoners are held by the Nigerian Army and, in particular, the continued good health of the remaining detainees from Okuama in Ughelli South.
“If there are allegations against these individuals, they must be charged to a competent civil court for a fair trial. The continued detention of these community leaders without trial violates their fundamental human rights and undermines the rule of law.
“The Military’s current stance—acting as both accuser and judge—sets a dangerous precedent that is incompatible with Nigeria’s democratic ideals. Our democracy rests on the pillars of justice, equity, and due process, and any deviation from these principles erodes public confidence in our institutions.
“I urge the Military to prioritize transparency and accountability, as they are essential for national unity and progress.
“As the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, I assure the Okuama people of my unwavering support in their quest for justice. I will continue to work with relevant authorities to ensure that the rights of all citizens are protected and together, we will ensure that the values of justice and democracy prevail”, he added.
… How Senator Ned Nwoko, others earlier saved the life of Ewu-Urhobo monarch from Military detention
Recall that sometime in April this year, Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North senatorial district at the National Assembly met with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa to seek the release of the traditional ruler of Ewu- Urhobo kingdom, detained following the killing of 17 Soldiers on a peace mission in Okuama community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, South South, Nigeria.
The monarch, His Royal Majesty,Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, was at that time among the eight persons declared wanted by the Military for their alleged involvement in the March 14 Okuama crisis.
Senator Nwoko, moved by the plight of the traditional ruler facilitated his release and was accompanied by two other Senators from Delta Central and Delta South appealing for the release of the traditional ruler had remarked that “his (Monarch) continued detention risks exacerbating tensions within Delta”.
Photo credit: Pic of Senator Ede Dafinone and Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, President-General of Okuama community, Courtesy of SouthernVoice News
