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The Member representing the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on National Inland Waterways, Ojotu Ojema, has strongly condemned the alleged killing of a young man, Ernest Owoicho, by personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) deployed to the Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.

Reports indicate that Owoicho was reportedly apprehended by the military on Saturday, April 5, 2025, and died in custody early on Sunday, April 6.

Visible signs of torture were allegedly found on his body, raising concerns about potential abuse during his detention.

Ojema, upon learning of the incident, cut his trip to Abuja short and visited the OPWS base in Ugbokpo, the LGA headquarters, to verify the details.

At the base, he referred to the death as “gruesome” and called for a thorough investigation to identify and bring those responsible to justice.

Ojema appealed to security agencies to respect the law and human rights, offering his support to Owoicho’s grieving family.

He also directed that welfare checks be conducted on the two children left behind by the deceased to determine what assistance might be provided to them.

While urging the residents of Apa, particularly the youth, to remain calm and allow the legal process to unfold, Ojema reaffirmed his dedication to securing justice for his constituents.

“I have the mandate to stand, speak and defend the people of Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

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“There are several civil ways of investigating a case other than torture, more so that we are in the Democratic era. The gruesome murder of this young man is highly condemnable and culprits won’t go unpunished. In as much as I stand against any form of criminality, I can not accept the intimidation and unjustifiable killing of my people” Ojema was quoted as saying by his media aide, Olikita Ekani.

In tears, a relative of the deceased, Peter Ibrama, mourned the loss, describing Owoicho as a kind and cheerful young man. He expressed the family’s shock upon receiving only his lifeless body after his arrest.

In response, the OPWS commander, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed regret over the incident, stating that the unfortunate outcome of the investigation process was not intentional. He assured the federal lawmaker that an internal investigation would be conducted immediately, and anyone found responsible would be held accountable.

Owoicho Ernest, an orphan, leaves behind two young sons.

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