SOLDIERS KILL ERNEST, BABY MAMA ACCUSES COUNCIL CHAIRMAN AND OMALE OMALE
6th April, 2025
*Tragic Death of Philanthropist and Political Aspirant Sparks Outrage Over Apa Local Government's Security Failures*
The recent death of Ernest Owoicho, a philanthropist, founder of the non-governmental organization 'All Hands on Deck,' and aspiring political figure, has ignited widespread condemnation and raised serious concerns about the security situation in Apa Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
Owoicho, an orphan committed to supporting community development and aiding the less privileged, had recently expressed his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the 2027 elections. His untimely demise reportedly followed a brutal encounter with soldiers allegedly acting under the directives of local authorities.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that soldiers, purportedly hosted by the Apa LGA Chairman, Mr. Adams Ochega, conducted a series of raids targeting local youths. During these operations, Owoicho was apprehended and subjected to severe physical assault, which reportedly led to his death. His body was subsequently deposited at the Ugbokpo mortuary, with reports of visible injuries consistent with torture. Sympathizers have been denied access to his remains, further fueling public outrage.
In the wake of this tragedy, concerns have emerged regarding the potential political motivations behind the actions taken against Owoicho and other youths in the community. Reports suggest that certain youths had been declared politically non grata and were allegedly listed for decimation using military forces. This has led to speculations that Owoicho's political ambitions may have made him a target for such operations.
Owoicho's partner, with whom he had children, has publicly accused the Apa Council Chairman, Mr. Ochega, and the State Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Hon. Omale Omale, of orchestrating the arrest and subsequent death of Owoicho. She alleges that their directives led to the fatal actions of the soldiers.
Community leader Mr. Edache Enogela expressed profound disappointment in the local government's handling of security. He questioned the rationale behind deploying military forces for matters such as a stolen motorcycle, especially when the LGA has been plagued by severe security challenges, including kidnappings and attacks by armed Fulani herdsmen. Enogela criticized the apparent inaction of the authorities during these crises and condemned the use of excessive force against local youths over minor infractions.
When contacted, the Divisional Police Officer confirmed the arrest and subsequent death of Owoicho, stating that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Council Chairman, Mr. Ochega, claimed he became aware of the incident only recently and linked it to a stolen motorcycle. According to him, the soldiers reported that Owoicho collapsed and died during interrogation.
The tragic death of Ernest Owoicho has intensified scrutiny on the Apa LGA's approach to security and justice. There is a growing demand for a comprehensive investigation into the use of military forces for civil matters, the alleged directives from local officials, and the apparent neglect of pressing security issues affecting the community. The public seeks accountability and reforms to prevent such incidents in the future and to ensure that the rights and lives of citizens are adequately protected.
By Morgan Adikwu
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