In a significant development, officials of the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State have transferred the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom, HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe, to the military authorities. The monarch’s surrender to the police came after he was declared wanted by the military in connection with the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama Community.
HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe, along with Prof Ekpekpo Arthur, the president general of Ewu, and five others, were declared wanted on Thursday in connection with the tragic incident.
Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the handover, stating, “Confirmed.”
The transfer of the traditional ruler to the military occurred on Friday morning in Asaba, according to reports.
Previously, HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe had vehemently denied any involvement in the killings. In a press conference held on Thursday, he asserted his innocence before submitting himself to the police. He expressed shock at being implicated in the incident and emphasized his commitment to peace.
“I am very surprised that my name as the monarch of the kingdom will appear in the list of wanted persons. I have no hand in the killings, I have no hand in encouraging anybody to kill anybody,” he stated.
He further urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to apprehend the true perpetrators and ensure justice is served. The monarch also highlighted efforts made by the state government to resolve existing disputes within the community.
The case has drawn significant attention, with both the police and military working together to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing of the soldiers in Okuama Community. Further updates on the investigation are awaited as authorities continue their efforts to bring those responsible to justice.