In a statement made available to journalists in Warri, Delta State, on Saturday, Dafinone condemned the circumstances surrounding Oghoroko’s death and called for the immediate and unconditional release of five other community leaders detained by the Nigerian military since August.

The detained individuals include Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Pa Dennis Okugbaye, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs Rita Akata.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, President-General of the Okuama community, who died in military custody under distressing circumstances,” the statement read.

“Pa Oghoroko was a respected leader, dedicated to the progress and unity of Okuama. His demise is a painful loss to his family, the Okuama people, and Delta Central as a whole. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Okuama community during this difficult time. May God grant them the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss,” he added.

Call for Justice

The Senator criticised the military’s handling of the detainees, asserting that their continued detention without trial undermines the rule of law and violates fundamental human rights.

He demanded that the detainees be charged to court if allegations against them exist.

“The current posture of the military authorities, where they have assumed the position of prosecutor and the judge in their case, doesn’t speak well for Nigeria’s democracy,” Dafinone said.

He further questioned the conditions under which the detainees are being held, adding, “The death of Pa Oghoroko in detention also calls into question the conditions under which prisoners are held by the Nigerian Army and, in particular, the continued good health of the remaining detainees from Okuama in Ughelli South.”

Meanwhile, Dafinone warned against the military’s dual role as accuser and judge, describing it as a dangerous precedent that erodes trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“Our democracy rests on the pillars of justice, equity, and due process, and any deviation from these principles erodes public confidence in our institutions,” he stated. “The military’s current stance—acting as both accuser and judge—is incompatible with Nigeria’s democratic ideals.”

Assurances to Okuama People

The lawmaker pledged his unwavering support to the Okuama community in their pursuit of justice and called for transparency and accountability from the military.

“As the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, I assure the Okuama people of my unwavering support in their quest for justice,” Dafinone affirmed.

PUNCH Online reports that the death of Oghoroko in detention has sparked renewed calls for justice, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law in Nigeria’s handling of detainees.