Rights Group Demands Justice Over Killing Of Delta Visitor

A human rights organisation, Journalists for Defence of Human Rights (JDHR), has condemned the killing of Oghenekaro Ugochukwu Bonny, who was visiting a friend along with two others on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate, Otokutu, in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The group is calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and Okakuro Akpokona Omafuaire, Chairman and Secretary respectively, in Warri.

According to multiple eyewitness reports, the incident occurred on October 12, 2025, at Plantation City Estate, near Otokutu Community, Ughelli South.

The soldier, alongside some colleagues, reportedly assaulted Ugo during a dispute over whether he should be allowed to enter the estate gate.

The confrontation escalated, and witnesses alleged that the soldier stabbed Ugo, who later died in hospital.

Rights activists have urged the Delta State Police Command and the Chief of Army Staff to intervene and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The military, in a press release following the incident, claimed the soldier acted in self-defence, alleging that Ugo — identified by the Army as Mr Ugochukwu Oghenekaro — was part of a group trying to force entry into the DMLT Estate without clearance. The statement added that Ugo became aggressive and engaged in a physical altercation.

According to the military’s version, the soldier, while on duty, attempted to halt the group, and the situation escalated, leading to the tragic outcome.

However, the family of the deceased has strongly disputed the claim that Ugo posed any threat or was involved in any criminal activity.

They maintain that he was merely visiting a friend, not attempting to force entry. His relatives also allege that the Army’s narrative is inconsistent with eyewitness accounts, that they were not properly involved in the investigation, and that crucial evidence — such as statements from his brothers and medical reports — has been ignored.

In its statement, JDHR rejected the self-defence claim as lacking credible evidence and insisted that a comprehensive investigation be carried out before drawing any conclusions.

The group further demanded an independent and transparent review of all available facts, including autopsy results, witness testimonies, and any security camera footage.

JDHR also called for the immediate suspension of the soldier involved pending the outcome of investigations.

The organisation urged both the Army and the Police to demonstrate transparency throughout the process in order to restore public confidence.