James Oghorokor and Dennis Okugbaye, two leaders from the Okuama community in Delta State’s Ughelli South Local Government Area, have filed separate lawsuits against the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Federal High Court in Warri. They are seeking ₦200 million in damages for what they claim are unlawful arrests and detentions.
Represented by lawyers Malcolm Omirhobo Esq. and Akpokona Omafuaire Esq., Oghorokor and Okugbaye allege they were detained without charge or access to legal counsel during a military operation in August. This operation also saw the detention of six other community leaders, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Pa Anthony Ahwemuria, and Mrs. Rita Akata, who have reportedly been held in undisclosed locations.
The plaintiffs are demanding their immediate release and compensation, asserting violations of their fundamental rights.
In Suit NO: FHC/WR/CS/84/2024, Oghorokor seeks ₦100 million for his alleged illegal detention. In Suit NO: FHC/WR/CS/85/2024, Okugbaye also demands ₦100 million under similar claims.
The lawsuits seek declarations that the invasion of their homes and subsequent detentions without due process constitute serious violations of their fundamental rights. The plaintiffs are asking the court to enforce their rights to personal liberty, private and family life, and freedom of movement, and to grant an injunction preventing further violations.
They request the court to compel the immediate and unconditional release of the detainees and to award damages of ₦100 million each for the infringement of their rights.