Tension has continued to mount following the controversial killing of Ugochukwu Oghenekaro, who was reportedly shot dead by a soldier at Delta Marine Logistics and Technical (DMLT) Estate, Otokutu, in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
While the Nigerian Army insists that the incident was a case of self-defence, the family of the deceased has accused the military of twisting facts and attempting to cover up what they describe as an unprovoked killing of an innocent man.
Army’s Version: Soldier Acted in Self-Defence
In a statement issued by Capt. Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 63 Brigade, Asaba, the Army stated that the confrontation occurred on October 13, 2025, between a soldier and a “suspected criminal” at DMLT Estate, Warri.
According to the statement:
“The incident occurred when a soldier on duty at the DMLT Estate gate halted a group of individuals who attempted to force their way into the premises without undergoing security checks.
“When the soldier questioned their intentions and identities, the individuals became aggressive and unruly. The situation escalated into a physical struggle, during which the soldier acted in self-defence, injuring one of them.”
The Army further said the injured suspect was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead. It added that the Otu-Jeremi Police Division was immediately notified for further action.
Family Rejects Army’s Claim, Accuses Military of Cover-Up
The family of the deceased, however, dismissed the Army’s account as false and defamatory, maintaining that Oghenekaro was unarmed and peacefully visiting a friend when he was killed.
A close relative, Peace Idirima, who was present during the incident, said:
“I am shocked the Nigerian Army would turn around and label us criminals. On Monday, we were invited to the barracks along with the estate management. They begged us not to escalate the matter and pleaded for a peaceful settlement. Now, they’ve turned around to say we were forcing entry and attacked a soldier. Where’s the evidence?”
Idirima explained that the late Oghenekaro had gone to meet a caterer he paid ₦500,000 to prepare a cake and decorations for his wife’s upcoming birthday celebration when the tragic event occurred.
“We were unarmed, posed no threat, and Oghenekaro was unjustly killed by a soldier known for violent behaviour,” he added.
He further disclosed that the family’s phones were seized during their visit to the barracks to prevent recordings and that the Army’s latest statement forced them to withdraw cooperation from the police investigation.
“We’ve hired a lawyer and are compiling evidence—autopsy results, photographs, audio recordings, and the death certificate. We won’t be silenced. Let the court decide who is telling the truth.”
Activist Condemns Army, Plans Protest
Human rights activist Israel Joe also condemned the Army’s stance, accusing it of defending the soldier responsible for the killing—identified as Sefiu.
He vowed to write a protest letter to the Minister of Defence and stage a peaceful demonstration, during which they plan to return the victim’s corpse to the Army.
“Full-blown military brutality has happened to Mr. Oghenekaro. The Army’s statement is a disgraceful attempt to protect a murderer.
“Your soldier murdered an innocent young man in cold blood in the presence of his brothers. None of them were armed, nor have any criminal records,” he said.
Joe further questioned the Army’s investigation, calling it biased and unprofessional:
“Is stabbing an innocent person part of your combat skills? If he was truly a criminal, why did your officer run away after the act instead of securing the suspect? This is a clear cover-up, and we will not rest until justice is served.”
