Activists Demand Release of Okuama Detainees Two Years After Military Arrests
Two years after the incident in Okuama community, Delta State, activists and members of the community have called on the Nigerian military to release individuals detained in connection with the killing of soldiers in the area.
A legal practitioner and activist, Frank Tietie, made the call while stressing that the continued detention of the suspects without trial is unconstitutional. He urged the authorities to either charge the detainees to court or release them, insisting that justice must be served within the framework of the law.
Those reportedly still in military custody include Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka, and Mabel Owhemu. They were arrested following the crisis between Okuama and neighbouring Okoloba community, which resulted in the death of several soldiers.
It was also gathered that one of the detainees died while in custody, while another was released on health grounds.
Members of the Okuama community have expressed concern over the prolonged detention of their leaders, describing the situation as unjust. During a protest, they warned that they might boycott future elections if their demands are not met.
Community representatives maintained that Nigeria is governed by the rule of law and that anyone accused of wrongdoing should be properly charged and tried in court, rather than being held indefinitely.
The crisis in Okuama followed a military reprisal after the killing of soldiers, which reportedly led to the destruction of the community and the arrest of several residents.
COMMENTS