The Ovie of Ewu Kingdom in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, has voluntarily surrendered himself to the police amidst the unfolding events surrounding the killing of military personnel in his domain. This action follows the Defence Headquarters’ declaration of him and seven others as wanted individuals on Thursday, linking them to the tragic incident that occurred on March 14, 2024, where officers and soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion lost their lives during a peacekeeping mission in the Okuama community.
The longstanding land dispute between Okuama and Okoloba communities has been cited as the underlying tension leading to the unfortunate incident. Responding to his inclusion on the wanted list, the monarch expressed disbelief and vehemently denied any involvement, emphasizing his commitment to his faith as a devout Catholic and Christian.
Despite his protestations of innocence, reports from Channels TV indicate that the monarch has turned himself in at the state police command. Upon his arrival at 6:41 pm on Thursday, he presented himself to the state Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, confirmed the surrender.
Before handing himself over to the authorities, the monarch addressed reporters, reiterating his innocence in the matter. Meanwhile, the Nigerian military has hinted at placing a bounty on the suspects connected to the killings. Funeral rites for the fallen soldiers were held on Wednesday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
Among the other individuals declared wanted are Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (aka AMAGBEN), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi. The Delta State police spokesperson has confirmed that the monarch has been handed over to the military authorities, further intensifying the gravity of the situation.
