Okuama killing: Army frees Delta Monarch, Ikolo

By Stephen Asaba-ase

The Nigerian Army has released the embattled Ewu traditional ruler, HRM Clement Ikolo, that were earlier declared wanted, over the gruesome killing of 1 Lieutenant Colonel, 2 Major, a captain and 13 soldiers in Delta State on the 14th March 2024.

The king was declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters with other seven persons for allegedly involving in Okuama’s ambushed that led to the killing of the soldiers.

Congress news learnt that the spokesperson of the Army, Major General Clement Nwachukwu emphasised that, His Royal Majesty King Clement Ikolo had been released because, he doesn’t have any direction connection in Okuama’s killing.

However, Senator Ede Dafianone who stood as surety at the Army Headquarters before the Director of Army Public Relations officer, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, released the traditional ruler.

After spending two weeks in military custody, the Nigerian Army, on Friday, released the king of Ewu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty King Clement Ikolo, to Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone of Delta State.

Meanwhile the three senators from Delta State on Tuesday, met with the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, asking for the release of the monarch whom they believe may not have any connection to the Okuama’s gruesome killing.

The visit to the CDC on Wednesday by Senator Dafinone and Senator Ned Nwoko in the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps where they were granted audience with King Clement Ikolo and relieved to see that the King were in good shape.

The Delta State traditional ruler, who is in good spirit was surrounded by his family members as the army briefed journalist before his release.