Residents of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have declared that no elections will take place in the area unless their detained leaders are released.
The position was made known on Wednesday during a protest against the continued detention of community leaders following the military operation that led to the destruction of the town nearly two years ago.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Chairman Mr. Vote Johnwalker expressed frustration over what he described as prolonged injustice and neglect, stating that Okuama has been treated as an outcast.
“It has been about two years since our leaders were arrested and detained by the military after the destruction of our community,” he said. “Nigeria is governed by the rule of law. When individuals are accused of crimes, they should be charged to court and tried accordingly.”
Johnwalker alleged that despite court orders mandating the appearance of the detainees, the military has failed to comply. He also revealed that one of the detained leaders, James Achovwuko Oghoroko, died in custody, while another, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, was released on health grounds after falling critically ill.
He further listed those still in detention as Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo of Delta State University, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka, and Mabel Owhemu.
The chairman insisted that the community’s demand is rooted in a quest for justice, stressing that no court has found Okuama residents guilty of the alleged killing of soldiers that triggered the military response.
“We have decided that there will be no election in Okuama Community unless our leaders are released. If the government is interested in our votes, it must address our grievances,” he added.
Community members also decried the lack of efforts to rebuild the town, accusing authorities of abandoning them while their leaders remain in detention.
The protest highlights growing tensions in the area as residents continue to call for justice, accountability, and rehabilitation of their community.
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