By Kenneth Orusi

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In April 2024, a significant event unfolded in Delta State, Nigeria, involving the detention and subsequent release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, the monarch of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The monarch’s detention was linked to a tragic incident in Okuama community, where 17 military personnel lost their lives.

Following the incident, the Nigerian Army declared King Ikolo and seven others wanted.

Demonstrating his commitment to due process, the monarch voluntarily surrendered to the Delta State Police Command, which subsequently handed him over to military authorities for investigation.

The monarch’s detention prompted swift action from Delta State’s political representatives. Senators Ede Dafinone (Delta Central), Ned Nwoko (Delta North), and Joel Onowakpo-Thomas (Delta South) engaged with military authorities to advocate for the king’s release.

Their concerted efforts culminated in a meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, and other military officials.

On April 19, 2024, the Nigerian Army released King Ikolo into the custody of Senator Dafinone, who acted as a surety, ensuring the monarch’s availability for any further investigations.

The release was formalized at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, where the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that while preliminary investigations had not conclusively established the monarch’s culpability, the inquiry remained ongoing.

Senator Dafinone expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chief of Army Staff for their roles in facilitating the monarch’s release.

He stated, “The release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, brings a sense of relief and reassurance to our community.”

He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of his fellow senators, Nwoko and Onowakpo-Thomas, in securing the monarch’s freedom.

Upon his release, King Ikolo was reunited with his family and expressed appreciation for the fair treatment he received during his detention.

He pledged to support ongoing investigations to ensure that the perpetrators of the Okuama incident are brought to justice.

The monarch’s release underscores the importance of dialogue and collaboration between traditional institutions, political representatives, and security agencies in addressing complex security challenges.

This incident highlights the delicate balance between maintaining national security and upholding the rights and dignity of traditional institutions.

The proactive involvement of the senators and the subsequent release of the monarch reflect a commitment to due process and the rule of law.

As investigations continue, the community remains hopeful for a resolution that ensures justice for the fallen soldiers and peace for the Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom.

• Kenneth Orusi, is the Publisher and Editor-in-chief of The Story and Chairman, ICC, Delta NUJ.