By Abel Johngold Orheruata
The Urhobo Media Practitioners and Advocacy Group is deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic and untimely death of Pa James Oghoroko, President-General of Okuama Town in Ewu Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State. Pa Oghoroko passed away while in the custody of the Nigerian military—a clear violation of his fundamental human rights and a stain on the sanctity of justice and dignity.
We categorically condemn the actions of the Nigerian military, which have led to this preventable tragedy. Pa Oghoroko’s death highlights systemic issues of human rights abuses and lack of due process. We, therefore, demand:
1. A Full and Independent Investigation: The Nigerian government must conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pa Oghoroko’s death. Those found responsible must be held accountable in accordance with the law.
2. Immediate Release of Other Detained Okuama Leaders: We call for the unconditional release of Professor Arthur Ekpekpor and other Okuama leaders currently held in military detention. Any allegations against these individuals should be addressed through due process by charging them to a court of competent jurisdiction, as stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution.
3. Addressing the Root Causes of Conflict: The Nigerian government must urgently address the underlying issues that have led to unrest in Okuama and other affected communities. Sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue and justice, not through oppression and abuse of power.
4. International Attention to Human Rights Violations: We urge global human rights organizations—including the United Nations, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch—to take notice of these gross human rights abuses and exert pressure on the Nigerian government to uphold the rights and dignity of its citizens.
While we condemn the killing of 17 military personnel in the region—a tragedy that must also be thoroughly investigated—we reaffirm that justice cannot be achieved through arbitrary detention or extra-judicial actions. We call for an impartial and comprehensive probe into the deaths of both civilians and military personnel to ensure accountability and foster reconciliation.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Pa James Oghoroko, the Okuama Community, and the Ewu Kingdom. We hope his death will not be in vain but will instead spark a commitment to justice, accountability, and respect for human rights across Nigeria.
Signed,
Mr. Okpare Theophilus Onojeghen
Chief Omafume Amurun
Comrade Shedrack Onitsha
For:
Urhobo Media Practitioners and Advocacy Group