A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the immediate and unconditional release of several leaders of the Okuama community who have been detained by the military for more than 21 months.
Gatekeepers News reports that the ruling was delivered by Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa in a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed on behalf of the detainees.
The court directed that the release order be served immediately on the respondents and adjourned the substantive case to July 13, 2026, for further hearing. The judge had previously ordered that the detained community leaders be produced before the court, but the military reportedly failed to comply with that directive.
Among those ordered to be released are Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Malaka and Mabel Owhemu. The leaders were arrested following the killing of 17 soldiers during a peace mission in Okuama community in March 2024. The military had detained several community leaders during its investigation into the incident.
The case has attracted significant public attention, particularly after reports that two detainees, including community president-general James Oghoroko, died while in custody. The Defence Headquarters had earlier said it was investigating the reported deaths.
Residents of Okuama reportedly celebrated the court’s decision, describing it as a major victory for justice and calling on authorities to ensure the order is implemented without delay.
