A human rights organisation, Journalists for Defence of Human Rights (JDHR), has condemned the killing of Oghenekaro Ugochukwu Bonny, a Delta youth, by a soldier at Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate in Otokutu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
This was contained in a statement on Thursday by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and Okakuro Akpokona Omafuaire, Chairman and Secretary respectively in WARRI.
The group is calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.
According to multiple eyewitness reports, the incident which occurred on October 12, 2025.saw
the soldier, alongside colleagues, reportedly assaulted Ugo during a dispute over whether he should enter the estate gate.
The confrontation escalated and, witnesses say, the soldier stabbed Ugo, who later died in hospital.
Rights activists have urged the Delta State Police Command and the Chief of Army Staff to intervene, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The military in a press release following the incident, claimed the soldier acted in self-defence, saying that Ugo (identified by Army as Mr. Ugochukwu Oghenekaro) was part of a group trying to force entry into the DMLT Estate gate without clearance, became aggressive, and engaged in a physical altercation.
According to the military version, the soldier, while on duty, halted the group, and the situation escalated, leading to the dooming outcome.
The family of the deceased strongly disputed the claim that Ugo posed any threat or was involved in criminal activity.
They maintain he was visiting a friend, not attempting to force entry. His relatives also allege the Army’s narrative is inconsistent with eyewitness accounts, that they were not appropriately involved in investigations, and that evidence (such as statements from his brothers, medical reports, etc.) has been ignored.
In its statement, JDHR rejects the self‑defence claim as lacking credible evidence and insists on thorough investigation before jumping into conclusion.
The group demands independent and thorough examination of all facts, including autopsy reports, witness testimonies, any security camera or other footages.
J4DHR calls for the soldier involved to be suspended pending investigation.
The group urges the Army, as well as police, to show transparency in the proceedings, to regain public trust.
(Pix by Newsnet)
