Human Rights Group Demands Probe into Killing of Visitor by Soldier in Delta State

A human rights organisation, Journalists for Defence of Human Rights (JDHR), has demanded an independent and transparent investigation into the alleged killing of Oghenekaro Ugochukwu Bonny by a soldier in Otokutu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The incident occurred on October 12, 2025, at Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate, where the deceased reportedly visited a friend in the company of two others.

According to multiple eyewitness accounts, a dispute broke out between Ugo and soldiers stationed at the estate’s gate over his right to enter the premises. The confrontation allegedly escalated, leading to one of the soldiers stabbing Ugo, who later died at a nearby hospital.

In a joint statement released on Thursday by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and Okakuro Akpokona Omafuaire, JDHR’s Chairman and Secretary in Warri, the group condemned the act and called for the immediate suspension of the soldier involved pending a full investigation.

“The self-defence claim lacks credible evidence. We demand a thorough, independent examination of all facts, including autopsy reports, eyewitness testimonies, and any available CCTV footage,” JDHR said.

The Nigerian Army, in a separate statement, claimed that the soldier acted in self-defence, alleging that Ugo and his companions tried to force entry into the estate without clearance and became violent.

However, the family of the deceased has strongly refuted the Army’s version, insisting that Ugo was a peaceful visitor who posed no threat. They accused the military of releasing inconsistent statements and failing to involve them adequately in the investigation.

The family further alleged that crucial evidence, including medical reports and witness statements, has been ignored.

JDHR urged both the Delta State Police Command and the Chief of Army Staff to ensure full accountability, stressing that transparency in the investigation would help restore public trust in the military.