Justice A.H. Ngajiwa of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri has ordered the immediate release of President-General of the Ewu Clan Development Forum, Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, and other detainees arrested by the military over their alleged connection to the killing of military personnel in Okuama Community.
The ruling sparked jubilation among family members, friends and supporters of the detainees who thronged the courtroom to witness the proceedings.
The Federal High Court was filled to capacity as relatives and associates of Prof. Ekpekpo and the other detainees anxiously awaited the outcome of the case involving those arrested and detained by the military in 2024 following the tragic killing of soldiers in Okuama Community.
Delivering his ruling, Justice Ngajiwa directed the immediate release of Prof. Ekpekpo and the other detainees. The court further ordered that the enrolled order be served on all respondents in the matter for immediate compliance.
The judge subsequently adjourned the case to July 13, 2026, for the hearing of the substantive suit.
Speaking with journalists after the proceedings, counsel to the detainees, Dr. Jonathan Ekperusi, commended the judiciary for what he described as a courageous decision anchored on the principles of justice and the rule of law.
Secretary-General of the Ewu Clan Development Forum, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe, alongside other supporters, expressed delight over the court’s decision, saying the ruling had reinforced their belief that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man.
They urged the respondents to obey the court’s directive without delay and ensure the immediate freedom of the detainees.
The atmosphere outside the courtroom turned celebratory as family members and friends erupted in jubilation, hailing the ruling as a triumph of justice.