Human Rights Lawyer and Okuama Community Demand Release of Detainees Held Since 2024
Human rights advocate and lawyer Frank Tietie has issued a strong call for the immediate release of Dr Arthur Ekpekpo, a Professor of Physics at Delta State University and President-General of the Okuama Community/Ewu Development Union, along with Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka, and Mabel Owhemu. These individuals have allegedly been arrested and detained by military authorities since 2024, following a violent clash between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State that resulted in the deaths of several Nigerian Army soldiers.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns Raised
Tietie emphasized that while the allegation of soldiers being killed poses a grave danger, the law must take its course to prevent injustice. He stated, "I am compelled, as a lawyer, human rights advocate, civil society leader, and media personality, to call for urgent national attention to the continued detention of leaders and members of the Okuama Community without charge or trial since 2024." He further highlighted that this situation raises serious constitutional and moral concerns for a country that prides itself on adherence to the rule of law.
Details of the Detention and Community Impact
According to Tietie, one of the detainees, James Achovwuko Oghoroko, reportedly died in military custody, while the Treasurer of Okuama Community, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, was released on health grounds after falling ill. The clash led to a reprisal attack from the army, which levelled the community, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
In a related development, members of the Okuama Community have issued a stark warning to politicians, including President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. They declared that there will be no elections in the community if their detained leaders are not released. This ultimatum was delivered during a protest against the continued detention, with community chairman Mr Vote Johnwalker stating, "It has been about two years now since our leaders were arrested and detained by the military after the destruction of the community." He added that Okuama is being treated as an outcast in the country, undermining democratic processes.
Broader Implications for Justice and Society
Tietie's briefing in Abuja underscored the broader implications of prolonged detention without trial. He noted that in a society governed by law, individuals accused of crimes should be charged and tried in court promptly. The ongoing detention not only violates legal norms but also fuels social unrest and threatens community stability in Delta State.
