In a recent turn of events that has captured the attention of the nation, the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom, HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe, was handed over to military authorities by the Delta State Police Command. This development follows the voluntary surrender of the monarch after the Defense Headquarters declared him wanted in connection with the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama, Delta State.
The situation in Okuama has been a subject of intense scrutiny and debate, highlighting the complex relationship between traditional authority figures and state military operations. The monarch’s surrender and subsequent handover is a significant moment, reflecting the ongoing efforts to address the challenges of maintaining peace and security in the region.
HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe, in a statement, expressed his surprise at being named among the wanted persons and vehemently denied any involvement in the killings. He emphasized his commitment to peace and his faith as a guiding principle against such violence. The state government had been aware of the turbulence within the kingdom and had plans to reconcile differences to allow the monarch to rule effectively.
The handover of the monarch to the military marks a critical juncture in the investigation of the Okuama killings. It underscores the need for a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice and highlights the importance of cooperation between traditional kingdoms and state authorities in resolving conflicts.
The case of HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe is a reminder of the delicate balance of power and the role of traditional leaders in modern governance. As the investigation continues, it will be crucial to observe how this event shapes the relationship between the military, the police, and traditional authorities in ensuring justice and stability in the region.
The tragic incident in Okuama, which resulted in the loss of 17 soldiers, has been a focal point of national concern. The soldiers, part of the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army, were reportedly on a mission to mediate a communal clash between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State when they were ambushed and brutally murdered by an armed youth gang from the community.
The situation escalated from a land dispute between the two communities into a violent confrontation. Reports indicate that the soldiers were not only ambushed but were also subjected to sacrilegious acts by the perpetrators. The commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and twelve soldiers, along with a civilian, were the unfortunate victims of this heinous act.
The background to this violence seems to be rooted in more than just a communal clash. There are suggestions that the killings were linked to oil bunkering activities in the region. Lt. Col Ali, who was among the deceased, had been actively working to stop illegal oil bunkering, which may have made him a target for those benefiting from these illicit operations.
The Chief of the Defense Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has expressed determination in tracking down those responsible, indicating that the military is aware of the identities of the culprits and is closing in on them.
This incident has not only caused grief and outrage but has also raised questions about the safety of military personnel during peacekeeping missions within volatile regions. It underscores the complexities of military operations in areas where there are deep-seated community issues and illegal activities that are fiercely protected by local interests.
As the investigation continues, the nation watches closely, hoping for justice for the fallen soldiers and a resolution to the violence that has shaken the community of Okuama. For further details and ongoing updates, the original reports provide comprehensive coverage.
King of the Ewu kingdom, Clement Ikolo, who is one of the suspects declared wanted by the Nigerian military, has been handed over to the military by the police. The spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, confirmed this on Friday. The monarch was one of the eight persons declared wanted by the King of the Ewu kingdom, Clement Ikolo, who is one of the suspects declared wanted by the Nigerian military and has been handed over to the military by the police.
The spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, confirmed this on Friday.
The monarch was one of the eight persons declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters in connection with the killing of 17 military personnel in the Okuama community.
He turned himself into the Delta State Police Command on Thursday.
The monarch arrived at the state police command headquarters at about 6:41 pm, to report himself to Police Commissioner, Olufemi Abaniwonda.
The monarch spoke to journalists at the police command and insisted that he was innocent of the crime.
He said he was shocked when he saw his name on the list of wanted persons in connection with the killing of the soldiers.
He claimed he had no hands in the killings which he described as a serious crime against humanity, and against his faith as a Catholic.
The other suspects declared wanted are Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (Aka Amagben), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki; a traditional ruler, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukeywe; Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.
Meanwhile, the 17 soldiers killed were buried at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, on Wednesday, 27 March.
They were buried in Abuja on Wednesday at a ceremony attended by President Bola Tinubu and Governors.
Also present at the burial were the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and service chiefs, among others.
