After spending two weeks in military custody, Clement Ikolo, the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, has been released by the Nigerian Army.
The monarch was freed following the intervention of Ede Dafinone, Ned Nwoko, and Joel Onowakpo-Thomas – three Delta State senators.
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Clement Nwachukwu, the spokesman for the Army, stated that Ikolo was released because there was no evidence linking him to the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama. However, Nwachukwu emphasised that the monarch has not been officially exonerated yet.
Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, is standing as the monarch’s surety. The military handed over the king to Dafinone around 11:00 am Friday, with the understanding that the senator will produce him if his presence is required for any further investigations.
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During the release, the monarch appeared to be in good spirits and was surrounded by his wife and other family members. The military briefed journalists before his release, highlighting the role of the three Delta State Senators in securing the monarch’s freedom.
As a follow-up to the visit to the CDC on Wednesday, Senator Dafinone, accompanied by Senator Ned Nwoko, visited the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps where they were granted an audience with Ikolo and was relieved to see that the King is in good health.
The monarch who turned himself in to the Delta State Police Command, was handed over to the Nigerian military after he was declared wanted in connection to the Okuama incident.
The monarch was among those declared wanted by the Nigerian Army on March 14, 2024, in the aftermath of the Okuama crisis which led to the death of soldiers and civilians including women and children.
The circumstances surrounding the Okuama killings continue to be investigated, and Ikolo’s release signifies a development in the ongoing inquiry. The senators’ involvement in advocating for the monarch’s freedom underscores the importance of due process and fair treatment.
