A human rights lawyer, Frank Tietie, has called for the immediate release or arraignment of detained leaders and members of Okuama community in Delta State, describing their continued detention without trial as unconstitutional.
Tietie, who is also the Executive Director of Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights, raised concerns in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the detainees have remained in custody since 2024 without being charged to court.
He listed those affected to include Arthur Ekpekpo, a professor of Physics and President-General of Ewu Development Union, alongside Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka and Mabel Owhemu.
The lawyer also cited reports that James Achovwuko Oghoroko died in military custody, while Pa Dennis Okugbaye was released on health grounds after reportedly falling critically ill.
Describing the development as a violation of fundamental rights, Tietie said the prolonged detention contravenes constitutional provisions on personal liberty and fair hearing.
“While the allegations surrounding the killing of soldiers are serious, due process must be followed. If there is evidence, they should be charged to court. If not, they must be released,” he said.
He warned that holding citizens without trial undermines the rule of law and weakens public confidence in state institutions.
Tietie called on President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian military and key Niger Delta leaders, including Government Ekpemupolo, to intervene in the matter.
“The detainees must either be released or brought before a competent court without delay. Justice delayed is justice denied,” he added.
He further noted that the length of time already spent in detention is sufficient for any investigation, urging authorities to act in line with the law.
The lawyer stressed that Nigeria must not allow a situation where citizens are detained indefinitely without trial, warning that such actions could erode democratic values.
