The Traditional Council of Chiefs in Ewu-Urhobo, Delta State, has issued a demand for the immediate release of their detained monarch, Clement Ikolo. Ikolo was one of the eight individuals declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters in connection to the killing of 17 military personnel in Okuama community, Ughelli Local Government Area, last month.
Following the publication of the list of wanted persons, Ikolo voluntarily surrendered himself to the Delta State Police Command, subsequently being handed over to the military in Abuja.
In a statement released on March 30 and shared with journalists on Tuesday, the Urhobo chiefs asserted that the detained monarch had no involvement in the communal crisis leading to the tragic incident. The council emphasized Ikolo’s efforts in seeking to resolve the crisis since assuming the throne.
Expressing condolences to the military and the families of the deceased officers, the council urged for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.
The statement clarified, “His Majesty is in no way associated with the ongoing feud between Okoloba and Okuama communities, let alone the tragic killing of military personnel.”
Highlighting Ikolo’s commitment to peace, the council underscored his efforts in reconciliation within the kingdom since his ascension to the throne four months ago. It was noted that Ikolo had not visited Okuama community or engaged in royal duties in Ewu, the kingdom’s headquarters.
The demand for Ikolo’s release reflects the stance of the Traditional Council of Chiefs, affirming the monarch’s innocence in the conflict and urging authorities to address the situation with fairness and justice.
