The Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the unconditional release of Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo and other detained leaders of Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa gave the order on Wednesday while delivering judgment in a fundamental rights enforcement application filed by the applicants.
The ruling was delivered on a motion filed on May 4, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, between Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo and others against the Federal Government of Nigeria and others.
The court also fixed July 13, 2026, for continuation of hearing in the substantive matter.
The court had earlier ordered that the detained persons be produced before it, but the directive was reportedly not complied with by the military authorities.
Counsel to the applicants, Dr. Jonathan Ekperusi, appeared with Andrew Ubido, Esq., while Magdalene Irorere held brief for the 3rd and 5th respondents during the proceedings.
The detained Okuama leaders include Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, President General of Ewu Kingdom; Chief Belvis Adogbo; Dennis Malaka; and Mabel Owhemu.
They have reportedly been in custody for nearly two years following their arrest by military personnel between August 18 and 19, 2024.
Their arrest followed the killing of 17 soldiers near Okuama community.
One of the detainees, Pa James Oghoroko, reportedly died while in detention.
Following the ruling, members of Okuama community expressed relief and joy over the court’s decision.
Speaking on behalf of some members of the community, Victor Akemor described the judgment as a welcome development and said it had given the people reason to celebrate.
“This is great news. Finally, we have reason to celebrate. The court is indeed the hope of the common man,” he said.
Akemor called on the Delta State Government to assist in ensuring the implementation of the court order.
He also commended community leaders and the legal team for their efforts in pursuing the release of the detained persons.
The order is expected to intensify calls for compliance by the relevant authorities and for the detained community leaders to be released without further delay.
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