OKuama Killing: King of Ewu Kingdom Regains Freedom

OKuama Killing: King of Ewu Kingdom Regains Freedom

By Ayshatu S. Rabo

After weeks in detention following the tragic killing of 17 personnel in Okuama community, Delta State, HRH Clement Ikolo, the King of Ewu Kingdom, has been released by the Nigerian Army.

The monarch voluntarily surrendered himself to the authorities after being declared wanted alongside seven other suspects in connection with the incident.

In a significant development, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, handed over HRH Clement Ikolo to Sen. Ede Dafinone, the Senator representing Delta Central. Briefing journalists on the release, Nwachukwu stated that the decision to release the traditional ruler on bail was made following preliminary investigations.

“While there is insufficient evidence to conclusively establish the traditional ruler’s culpability, it is too early to exonerate anyone from this dastardly act,” Nwachukwu said. He added that a thorough manhunt had been launched to apprehend those suspected of involvement in the crime, emphasizing the army’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Nwachukwu highlighted that HRH Clement Ikolo voluntarily surrendered to the Nigeria Police, who subsequently handed him over to the Nigerian Army for questioning. He noted that Sen. Dafinone’s intervention and assurance of the monarch’s character played a significant role in the decision to release him to the senator.

“The Nigerian Army releases HRH Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe, the king of Ewu kingdom, to Distinguished Senator Dafinone, representing Delta South, as a responsible national political figure,” Nwachukwu announced.

The release of the traditional ruler underscores the army’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and justice, according to Nwachukwu. He urged others to cooperate with authorities, assuring fair treatment in line with constitutional provisions.

In his response, HRH Clement Ikolo expressed gratitude to God, the Delta State Governor, members of the National Assembly from the state, and the army for their support and fair treatment during his detention. He pledged full cooperation with the army to ensure that those responsible for the tragedy are brought to justice.

Sen. Dafinone commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism in handling the crisis and confirmed that HRH Clement Ikolo was treated with dignity throughout his detention.

OKuama Killing: King of Ewu Kingdom Regains Freedom