SVCOSA Demands Justice for Okuama Detainees, Decries Prolonged Detention Without Trial ~ Truth Reporters

The St. Vincent’s College, Okwagbe Old Students’ Association (SVCOSA) has called for urgent action to address the continued detention of leaders of the Okuama community in Delta State, describing the situation as a serious violation of constitutional rights and the rule of law.

In a press statement signed by its National President, Prof. G. G. Darah, the association commended the intervention of human rights lawyer Frank Tietie for drawing national attention to the plight of the detainees.

SVCOSA expressed deep concern that the affected individuals have allegedly remained in detention for nearly two years in an undisclosed facility without being formally charged or arraigned before a competent court. The association described the development as a grave breach of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly provisions guaranteeing personal liberty and fair hearing.

The group highlighted that two of the detainees, Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo and Chief Belvis Adogbo, are alumni of St. Vincent’s College, Okwagbe, noting that their continued detention without trial has heightened concern within the alumni body.

According to the statement, repeated efforts to bring the detainees before the courts have not yielded results, raising fears that justice is being undermined. “Justice delayed is not only justice denied but justice effectively subverted,” the association stated.

SVCOSA called on the Federal Government, the Nigerian military authorities, and the Delta State Government led by Sheriff Oborevwori to take immediate steps to resolve the matter.

It specifically demanded that the detainees be promptly charged to court and tried in accordance with the law or released unconditionally if no credible evidence exists against them.

The association also urged intervention from key stakeholders, including the National Assembly members from Delta State, the Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council, the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association, and relevant United Nations agencies concerned with human rights.

SVCOSA warned that prolonged detention without trial could erode public trust in democratic institutions and set a dangerous precedent in the country.

“The time to act is now. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” the statement concluded.