Okuama community threatens poll boycott over detained leaders
Residents of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have threatened to boycott future elections over the continued detention of their community leaders, held since
Residents of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have threatened to boycott future elections over the continued detention of their community leaders, held since 2024 without trial.
The warning came during a protest on Wednesday, where the people decried perceived injustice, prolonged incarceration, and worsening conditions faced by detainees in military custody.
Community chairman, Mr. Vote Johnwalker, said the people would no longer participate in any electoral process until their leaders are released or charged to court, insisting that justice must be served.
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“Our leaders have been in detention for nearly two years without trial. In a law-abiding society, they should be charged and allowed to defend themselves,” he said.
A human rights lawyer, Frank Tietie, also faulted the prolonged detention, describing it as unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental rights.
Tietie, who is the Executive Director of the Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights, called for the immediate release or arraignment of the detainees, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka, and Mabel Owhemu.
He raised concerns over the death of one of the detainees, James Achovwuko Oghoroko, in custody, while another, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, was released on health grounds after falling critically ill.
“While the allegations are serious, due process must be followed. If there is evidence, they should be brought to court. If not, they must be released,” Tietie said.
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He warned that continued detention without trial undermines the rule of law and could erode public trust in state institutions.
The lawyer urged President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian military, and the Niger Delta leaders to intervene and ensure justice is served.
Recall that the arrests followed the killing of 17 soldiers near the community on March 14, 2024.
