The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of two Okuama community leaders, Pa James Oghoroko and Dennis Okugbaye, while in the custody of the Nigerian Army.
The President-General of the Okuama community, Pa Oghoroko and Mr. Okugbaye, the community treasurer, reportedly passed away within a span of six days after being detained during a military operation.
The operation, conducted between August 18 and 20, 2024, was in response to the March killing of 17 soldiers during a peace mission aimed at resolving a conflict between Okuama and the neighboring Okoloba community.
According to The PUNCH, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, addressed the issue at the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee’s end-of-year briefing.
He confirmed that General Musa had instructed the Nigerian Army’s 6th Division to investigate the allegations and submit a report by Monday.
“Allegations have emerged over the weekend about the deaths of individuals detained in connection with the Okuama incident,” Brig. Gen. Gusau said.
“In response, the Chief of Defence Staff directed the 6th Division to carry out a detailed investigation. By tomorrow, we expect a report on whether these claims are accurate.”
He added, “For now, these remain allegations. The military is committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served in this matter.”
In addition to the deceased, four other Okuama leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka, were reportedly detained during the military operation.
The deaths of Oghoroko and Okugbaye have sparked concerns about the treatment of detainees in military custody, prompting calls for accountability.
