Tension rocks Delta as second Okuama community leader dies in military custody

Just six days after the death of Okuama Community President General, Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, in military detention, the community’s treasurer, 81-year-old Dennis Okugbaye, has reportedly died in custody on Tuesday afternoon.

Okugbaye’s death, the second of six detained Okuama leaders to die in military custody, has intensified tensions in the Okuama Community of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State.

The detained leaders—Pa Dennis Okugbaye, the late Oghoroko, Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka—were arrested between August 18 and 20, 2024, and have been held without trial since then.

Pastor Akpos Okugbaye, amidst tears, confirmed his father’s death to Vanguard. The Okuama community had previously raised alarms over Pa Okugbaye’s declining health, following the death of 72-year-old Oghoroko in the same military facility.

A reliable source disclosed that Okugbaye’s family had transferred approximately N401,000 between Monday and Tuesday for his medical care at the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division headquarters in Bori Camp, Port Harcourt.

Despite evidence of these payments and a secret military medical report dated December 6, 2024, which recommended Okugbaye’s immediate release due to his health condition and advanced age, the recommendation was ignored, leading to his untimely death in custody.

The Okuama community has expressed outrage over these deaths, issuing a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government and military for the release of the remaining detainees. They have threatened to block access to the River Niger if their demands are not met.

As of the time of this report, the community remains on edge, with youths threatening immediate action.

(Vanguard)