“Okuama Protesters Demand Release of Detained Leaders and Return of Deceased Body Within Seven Days”

In Delta State, protesters from the Okuama community in Ughelli South have issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and military authorities. They are demanding the release of their detained leaders and the return of the body of Pa James Oghoroko, their deceased President-General, who died in military custody last week.

The unrest began after the tragic deaths of 17 soldiers in March during a peacekeeping mission between Okuama and the neighboring Okoloba community. In response, the military stormed Okuama, causing widespread destruction and forcing residents to flee. Those displaced were accommodated in an IDP camp at Ewu Kingdom.

Among those detained by the military were Pa Oghoroko and other community leaders. Following Pa Oghoroko’s death, community members have protested, demanding the release of the detained leaders and the return of his body. They have warned that they will block the River Niger if their demands are not met within the week.

Community leaders, including Elder Ohwotake Otiero and Jacob Akemor, expressed outrage over the military’s actions, calling them unlawful. They are seeking an immediate resolution to the crisis and an end to the suffering of the Okuama people. The Urhobo Media Practitioners and Advocacy Group has also condemned the violation of human rights and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pa Oghoroko’s death.