Delta State Monarch, Among Those Sought for Military Killings, Voluntarily Surrenders to Police

Stemming from the tragic killing of 17 military personnel in Delta State’s Okuama community, Clement Ikolo, the monarch of Ewu Kingdom, has surrendered to Nigerian authorities.

Ikolo, who was one of eight individuals declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters, took the step of voluntarily presenting himself to the state police command, signaling a notable turn in the ongoing investigation.

The incident, which has captured national attention, led to the Defence Headquarters issuing a wanted notice for eight individuals, including Ikolo. Shocked to find his name on the list, the monarch expressed his astonishment and innocence in a statement to Galaxy TV, emphasizing his non-involvement in any activity that could harm human lives. He stated, “It is a shock to me because I have no hands in such things. I don’t believe in anything that has got to do with truncating the lives of human beings.”

Ikolo, who was officially recognized as monarch on November 16, 2023, further mentioned his limited access to the kingdom, highlighting his disconnection from the events leading to the military personnel’s death. On Thursday evening, he reported to the Delta State Police Command, where he was taken into custody, confirmed by police commissioner Olufemi Abaniwonda.

This case traces back to March 14, 2024, when 17 military personnel were brutally killed in Delta State, prompting a rigorous investigation by the Nigerian Defence Headquarters. The announcement of the wanted individuals was made public through the Defence Headquarters’ social media, listing names and urging those named to come forward.

The nation mourned the loss of these military members, with President Bola Tinubu posthumously awarding national honors to the deceased during their burial in Abuja. The President also announced comprehensive support for the bereaved families, including housing, scholarships for the children up to university level, and a directive for the prompt payment of death benefits within 90 days.