The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has directed the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Chief of Defence Staff to bring Professor Arthur Ekpekpo, the detained President-General of Ewu Kingdom, before the court during the next hearing.
Justice H.A. Ngajiwa gave the order on Monday while hearing a bail application brought forward by the Okuama community in case number FHC/WR/CS/42/2024.
The request seeks the release of Professor Ekpekpo, who has been in custody since 2024 following his arrest alongside Mr. Julius Oghoroko, Mr. Bernard Esegba, and several others. Their arrest is tied to the deaths of 17 soldiers during an operation said to be a peace mission in Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident surrounding the soldiers’ deaths has drawn national attention and remains a deeply sensitive issue. Authorities believe the troops were attacked while trying to calm tensions between local groups in the area. Since then, the Nigerian military has been carrying out several operations in the region, with arrests made in connection with the killings.
During Monday’s court session, Dr. Jonathan Ekperusi, the legal representative for Professor Ekpekpo, told the court that his client’s prolonged detention is unlawful. He noted that there has been no formal charge or trial, and keeping him in custody without due process violates his rights under the law.
According to the court order, “The third and fifth respondents to produce the first applicant (Professor Arthur Ekpekpo) in court on the next adjourned date.” This statement refers to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Chief of Defence Staff, both of whom are expected to comply with the court’s directive.
It was also noted in court that the community has been pushing for justice, insisting that Ekpekpo is innocent and should be allowed fair treatment. Supporters argue that the military’s actions have caused fear among residents, especially as the circumstances of the soldiers’ deaths remain unclear.
