In the suit, the applicants averred that they have been
subjected to accusations and media trials over the incident.
They claim they have been subjected to collective punishment
by the army without any police investigation or any public inquiry indicting
them for the crime.
The applicants further averred that they were displaced from
their homes, their properties destroyed and many killed.
They are seeking an order from the court “for the
enforcement of the fundamental rights to the dignity of the human person, right
to a fair hearing, right to private and family life, freedom of movement and
right of choice of place of residence and right to own property of the
applicants and residents of the Okuama community”.
They are also seeking an order restraining the army from
further violating their fundamental rights and an order enabling the applicants
and residents of Okuama community to take back possession of their land.
Those named as applicants in the suit include Victor Akemor,
Madam Omotiwori Olarehor, Victor Odi, Okrika Emmanuel, Austin Eferemua, and
Evelyn Edjekola.
Others are James Ubredu, David Oghenewede, Lucky Orode,
Iwriogbo Best, Felix Orhiunu, Bernard Michael, Oghenekobiruo, Vero Joseph,
Ebikawe Emmanuel, Francis Uphurie, and Belvis Adogbo.
The plaintiffs are suing for themselves and the public
interest of the Okuama community residents.
The lawyers in the suit are Malcolm Omirhobo, Akpokona
Omafuaire, Seprebofa Oyeghe, O. L. Ofuasia, and Ernest Ogbaga.
