Just six days after the death of Okuama Community President General, Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, another community leader has lost his life in military detention.

Dennis Okugbaye, the 81-year-old Community Treasurer, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, sparking widespread tension in Okuama Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Okugbaye’s death comes amidst growing concerns over the health and well-being of the six Okuama leaders who have been held in military detention since August 2024 without trial.

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The Late Okugbaye was arrested along with Oghoroko, Prof Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka between August 18 and 20, 2024.

Family’s Desperate Efforts to Save Okugbaye

Pastor Akpos Okugbaye, Dennis’s son, broke the news of his father’s death to Vanguard, overcome with emotion. The Okugbaye family had sent approximately N401,000 between Monday and Tuesday for Okugbaye’s healthcare, but their efforts were in vain. A secret military medical report dated December 6, 2024, had recommended Okugbaye’s immediate release from custody due to health issues and old age, but this was not acted upon.

Community Demands Justice

The Okuama Community has been vocal about the failing health of Pa Dennis Okugbaye and had demanded his immediate release after Oghoroko’s death. With Okugbaye’s passing, the community’s anger has reached a boiling point.

On Sunday, they issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerian Government and Nigerian Army, threatening to block the River Niger if the detainees are not released. As of now, the situation remains tense, with angry youths threatening immediate action.