“Justice Delayed Is Justice Subverted” — SVCOSA Blasts Prolonged Detention of Okuama Leaders
The St. Vincent’s College, Okwagbe Old Students’ Association (SVCOSA) has strongly condemned the continued detention of leaders of the Okuama community in Delta State, declaring that the situation represents a dangerous erosion of the rule of law and a direct affront to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
In a firm and emotionally charged press statement signed by its National President, Prof. G.G. Darah, the association lamented that the affected individuals have reportedly been held in custody for nearly two years in an undisclosed facility without formal charges or arraignment before any court of competent jurisdiction.
SVCOSA hailed the courageous intervention of Barr. Frank Tietie, whose legal advocacy has helped spotlight the plight of the detainees on the national stage. The association described his efforts as patriotic and timely, noting that they have rekindled public discourse on the importance of justice and accountability.
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The association expressed grave concern that such prolonged detention without trial constitutes a clear violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly the provisions safeguarding personal liberty and the right to fair hearing. It warned that allowing such practices to persist threatens the very foundation of democratic governance.
Of particular concern to SVCOSA is the fact that two of the detainees—Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo and Chief Belvis Adogbo—are distinguished alumni of St. Vincent’s College, Okwagbe. The association noted that their continued incarceration without due process has deeply unsettled the alumni community and raised serious moral and legal questions.
Describing the situation as both troubling and unacceptable, SVCOSA stated that all efforts to ensure the detainees are brought before a court have so far failed to yield results. It emphasized that justice delayed in such circumstances is not merely denied but effectively subverted.
The association therefore called on the Federal Government, the Nigerian military authorities, and the Delta State Government under the leadership of Sheriff Oborevwori to act swiftly and decisively in resolving the matter.
Specifically, SVCOSA demanded that the detainees be immediately charged to court and tried in accordance with due process, or be released unconditionally if there is no credible evidence to sustain any charges against them.
In addition, the association urged key institutions and stakeholders—including the National Assembly members from Delta State, the Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council (Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo), the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association (Delta State Chapter), and relevant United Nations agencies—to intervene urgently and ensure that justice prevails.
SVCOSA warned that the continued detention of citizens without trial undermines public trust in state institutions and sets a dangerous precedent capable of weakening Nigeria’s democratic fabric.
Reiterating its unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and human dignity, the association stressed that the time for decisive action is now.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” the statement concluded.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 10TH 2026)
