The Federal High Court in Warri has adjourned the case between the UPU on behalf of Okuama Community and the Federal Government to November 13, 2025.
The case seeks the release of Professor Author Okpeku, the President General of Okuama Community, and three others being held by the Nigerian Army.
It would be recalled that the detainees, including Professor Okpeku, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Amalaka, and Mabel Owhemu, have been held for over a year.
The case stems from the killing of some Nigerian Army officers in Okuama Community, which led to the detention of six community leaders.
One of the detainees, Pa James Oghoroko, the president of Okuama community, died in detention.
The lawyer for UPU, Dr. Jonathan Ekperusi, expressed disappointment that the court order was not obeyed and called on the Federal Government to respect the rule of law.
He questioned why the Nigerian Army is detaining the individuals, stating that only the police have the authority to do so.
For his part Secretary General of Ewu Clan Development Forum,
Pastor Edewor Ogedegbe while speaking on behalf of the Okuama community and family members of the detainees, expressed pain and frustration over the prolonged detention.
He emphasized that the community is law-abiding and has chosen to follow the rule of law.
The case will resume on November 13, 2025, when the court will further consider the matter. The community and family members of the detainees are hopeful for a resolution that will bring an end to the prolonged detention
