Federal High Court Orders Unconditional Release of Detained Okuama Leaders

WARRI — The Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the unconditional release of Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo and other detained Okuama leaders from Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The ruling, delivered on Wednesday by Justice H.A. Nganjiwa, also fixed July 13, 2026, for the continuation of hearing in the substantive matter.
The court granted the order while ruling on a motion for release brought under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules filed by the applicants on May 4, 2026.
In Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/42/2024: Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo & Ors v. Federal Government of Nigeria & Ors, the judge had earlier ordered that the detainees be produced in court, a directive which was reportedly not complied with by the military.
Counsel to the applicants, Dr. Jonathan Ekperusi, alongside Andrew Ubido Esq., represented the detainees, while Magdalene Irorere held brief for Ikhide Ehighelua for the 3rd and 5th respondents during the proceedings.
The ruling sparked excitement among Okuama indigenes, who hailed the decision as a victory for justice.
A community source, Victor Akemor, described the judgment as “great news,” adding that it had restored hope in the judiciary.
He also called on the Delta State Government and traditional leaders to assist in facilitating the immediate release of the detainees.
The detained persons, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Malaka, and Mabel Owhemu, have reportedly been in custody for nearly two years.
It was also recalled that one of the detainees, Pa James Oghoroko, who was the President of Okuama Community, died while in detention.
The group was arrested by military personnel between August 18 and 19, 2024, following the killing of 17 Army officers and soldiers near the community