The residents of Okuama-Ewu, a community in Delta State, have taken the Nigerian army to court in Warri, seeking N200 billion in damages. They claim that the army cordoned off their community, destroyed homes, dehumanized them, and allegedly killed 17 military personnel without proper police investigations.
The applicants, mainly farmers, traders, and businessmen, want their fundamental human rights enforced, including the right to a fair hearing, dignity, privacy, freedom of movement, choice of residency, and property ownership. They include Victor Akemor, Madam Omotiwori Olarehor, Victor Odi, Okrika Emmanuel, Austin Eferemua, Evelyn Edjekola, Pa James Ubredu, David Oghenewede, Lucky Orode, Iwriogbo Best, Felix Orhiunu, Bernard Michael, Oghenekobiruo, Vero Joseph, Ebikawe Emmanuel, Francis Uphurie, and Hon Belvis Adogbo. They represent themselves and other Okuama residents.
The relief they seek includes declarations that the army's actions, accusing and punishing them for the soldiers' deaths without due process, are illegal and unconstitutional. They also demand compensation for property damage, an end to army occupation, and free access to their community.
The army has seven days to respond, and the court will schedule a hearing.
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