The controversy surrounding the death of Pa James Oghoroko, President-General of the Okuama Community in the Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, while in military detention in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has continued to stir outrage.
The Urhobo Media Practitioners and Advocacy Group (UMPAG) has demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, condemning the military’s actions in strong terms.
In a press release made available to journalists on Monday, December 9, 2024, and signed by Mr. Okpare Theophilus Onojeghen, Chief Omafume Amurun, and Comrade Shedrack Onitsha, the group expressed shock and dismay over the incident.
“The Urhobo Media Practitioners and Advocacy Group is shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Pa James Oghoroko, the President-General of Okuama town in Ewu Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, who died in Nigerian military detention,” the statement began.
The group described the incident as a “gross violation of human rights” and “an affront to the dignity of the people of the Okuama Community,” calling for immediate accountability.
The UMPAG called for:
- Thorough Investigation: A comprehensive probe into the circumstances leading to Pa Oghoroko’s death.
- Accountability: The prosecution of those responsible for the incident.
- Release of Other Detainees: The immediate release of Okuama leaders, including Professor Arthur Ekpekpor, held in military detention without due process.
- Respect for Constitutional Rights: Adherence to constitutional provisions, emphasizing that any allegations against the detained leaders should be handled in a court of competent jurisdiction.
The group also urged the Nigerian government to address the root causes of the conflict in the Okuama Community and ensure a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
In their statement, UMPAG called on international human rights organizations, including the United Nations, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch, to intervene and hold the Nigerian government accountable for alleged human rights abuses.
“This is arbitrary use of powers, which in any case, runs contrary to the provisions of the Nigerian constitution,” the statement read.
The group further condemned the killing of 17 military personnel during the crisis, demanding an unbiased investigation into the tragic incident while consoling grieving families.
The advocacy group expressed hope that the death of Pa Oghoroko would serve as a wake-up call for justice and reform in Nigeria.
“We extend our condolences to the family of Pa Oghoroko, the people of Okuama Community, and the entire Ewu Kingdom. May Pa Oghoroko’s death not be in vain, and may it serve as a catalyst for change and justice in Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
Pa James Oghoroko’s death occurred under controversial circumstances while he was in detention at a military camp in Port Harcourt. His detention and that of other Okuama leaders followed allegations of unrest in the community.
The incident has sparked widespread calls for accountability, with local and international bodies being urged to intervene.
