By Lucky Uto
A human rights lawyer and civil society leader, Frank Tietie, has called for the immediate release or prompt prosecution of detained leaders and members of the Okuama community in Delta State.
Tietie, in a press statement on Wednesday, said the continued detention of the individuals since 2024 without formal charges violates their constitutional rights to personal liberty and fair hearing.
He listed those still in detention as Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka, and Mabel Owhemu. He also noted that James Achovwuko Oghoroko reportedly died in military custody, while Pa Dennis Okugbaye was released on health grounds after falling critically ill.
The lawyer stressed that although the alleged killing of Nigerian Army personnel in the Okuama–Okoloba crisis is a serious matter, due process must be followed.
He said authorities should either charge the suspects to court if there is evidence or release them immediately.
Tietie warned that detaining citizens indefinitely without trial undermines public trust and weakens Nigeria’s democratic system.
He called on Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Nigerian military, and Niger Delta leaders including Government Ekpemupolo to urgently intervene.
He added that justice must be transparent and timely, emphasizing that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
Tietie also hinted at possible legal action if authorities fail to act, insisting that Nigeria must remain a country where the rule of law is respected and upheld.
