Pa Dennis Okugbaye, a leader in the Okuama community in Delta State, has reportedly died in Nigerian Army custody.
His death, confirmed by his son, Pastor Akpos Okugbaye, occurred on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, just days after the passing of the Okuama community President-General, Pa James Oghoroko, who died under similar circumstances in military detention.
Okugbaye, 81, had been detained alongside other community leaders, including Oghoroko, Professor Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka, since August 18 and 20, 2024.
These leaders were taken by the military without trial, fueling growing unrest and concern within the community.
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The news of Okugbaye’s death has further heightened tensions in Okuama, a town already shaken by Oghoroko’s death in custody.
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Prior to his passing, Okugbaye’s health had deteriorated significantly, prompting his family to send over N401,000 for his medical treatment.
However, despite a military medical report dated December 6, 2024, which recommended Okugbaye’s release due to his age and worsening health, military authorities refused to grant his release.
SaharaReporters has learned that shortly after Oghoroko’s death, residents of Okuama held a peaceful protest demanding the immediate release of the detained community leaders and the body of their deceased President-General.
The protesters, which included hundreds of women and youths, also issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government and military to release the remaining detainees or face a potential escalation.
