In a significant turn of events, HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe, the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom in Delta State, has voluntarily surrendered himself to the police amidst allegations linked to the tragic killings in the Okuama community.
Following the distressing incident that led to the loss of 17 soldiers, the monarch found himself at the center of a nationwide manhunt, alongside Prof Ekpekpo Arthur, the President-General of Ewu, and six others, as declared by the Defence Headquarters of the Nigerian Army.
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Prior to his surrender, the monarch convened a press conference to address the accusations leveled against him. In his statement, he vehemently denied any involvement in the violent acts, emphasizing his commitment to peace and justice.
Expressing his dismay at being implicated, HRM Clement Ikolo Oghenerukevwe emphasized his innocence, stating, “I have no hand in the killings, I have no hand in encouraging anybody to kill anybody. It is against my philosophy as a human being and my faith as a Catholic.”
Furthermore, he shed light on ongoing efforts by the state government to mediate the internal disputes within the kingdom, highlighting his own struggles to establish governance structures following his enthronement.
As investigations continue into the tragic incident, the surrender of the Delta monarch marks a significant development in the quest for justice and resolution within the Okuama community.