JDHR Seeks Justice for Soldier Killing of Delta Visitor

Human rights organization Journalists for Defence of Human Rights (JDHR) has strongly condemned the killing of Oghenekaro Ugochukwu Bonny. The incident occurred on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate in Otokutu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. The group is demanding a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

JDHR issued a formal statement on Thursday through its Chairman, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, and Secretary, Okakuro Akpokona Omafuaire, in Warri. Multiple eyewitnesses report the tragedy unfolded at Plantation City Estate near Otokutu Community. According to these accounts, a soldier, alongside colleagues, assaulted Ugo during a dispute about his entry into the estate. The confrontation reportedly escalated, culminating in the soldier stabbing Ugo, who later succumbed to his injuries in a hospital.

Calls for Accountability and Justice

Rights activists are urgently calling on the Delta State Police Command and the Chief of Army Staff to intervene. They insist that those responsible for the death of Oghenekaro Ugochukwu Bonny must be held fully accountable. The military’s subsequent press release presented a different version of events, claiming the soldier acted in self-defence. The Army identified the deceased as Mr. Ugochukwu Oghenekaro and alleged he was part of a group attempting to forcibly enter the DMLT Estate gate without clearance. They stated the situation escalated into a physical altercation after the soldier on duty halted the group.

Disputed Narratives and Demands for Transparency

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

The family of the deceased vehemently disputes the Army’s claims. They maintain that Ugo was simply visiting a friend and was not attempting to force entry or involved in any criminal activity. His relatives allege the official narrative contradicts eyewitness accounts. They also claim they have been sidelined from the investigative process and that key evidence, including statements from his brothers and medical reports, has been ignored. In its statement, JDHR rejects the self-defence claim, stating it lacks credible evidence. The group insists on a thorough, independent investigation before any conclusions are drawn.

JDHR is demanding an impartial examination of all facts, including autopsy reports, witness testimonies, and any available security footage. The organization has called for the immediate suspension of the soldier involved, pending the outcome of the investigation. JDHR is urging both the Army and the police to demonstrate complete transparency throughout the proceedings to restore public trust in the wake of this tragic incident.