The release of the traditional ruler of the Ewu Kingdom in Delta State, Clement Ikolo, by the Nigerian Army is a significant development. He was arrested in connection with the unfortunate killing of 17 soldiers in the state.
The Defence Headquarters had declared the traditional ruler, along with seven others, wanted for their alleged involvement in the attack on soldiers in the Okuama community on March 14, 2024.
The slain soldiers were on a peacekeeping mission addressing the ethnic conflicts between Okuama and Okoloba communities when they were ambushed and murdered by unidentified gunmen.
Ikolo regained his freedom on Friday, with Senator Ede Dafinone, representing his district, serving as surety during a briefing at the Army Headquarters conducted by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations.
During his detention, the monarch’s whereabouts were unknown to his family and friends for about a month. Efforts to have access to him were fruitless despite attempts by his lawyer and the Ewu-Urhobo Traditional Council of Chiefs.
Senator Ede Dafinone, who played a crucial role in facilitating Ikolo’s release, expressed gratitude towards President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chief of Army Staff for their contributions in securing the monarch’s freedom.
Together with Senators Ned Nwoko and Joel Onowakpo-Thomas, Dafinone engaged with military authorities to ensure the monarch’s release.
The Concerned Ijaw Citizens raised concerns about attacks and campaigns against the Nigerian military leadership regarding the Okoloba/Okuama crisis. They accused certain groups of attempting to tarnish the image of the Armed Forces with false narratives in a bid to bring about changes in the service chiefs.