The Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, has turned himself in to the Delta State Police Command in Asaba amid allegations linking him to the murder of 17 soldiers in Okuama. The monarch, who was one of eight individuals declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) for their alleged involvement in the gruesome killing, reported to the police on Thursday evening.
Ikolo, who had been living in London before his selection and crowning as the Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, was received by the Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi. In November of last year, he was presented with a staff of office by the Delta State governor.
Prior to surrendering himself, the monarch addressed journalists, vehemently denying any involvement in the soldiers' deaths and calling for an independent panel of inquiry to investigate the incident in Okuama. He stated that his decision to present himself to the authorities was to demonstrate his innocence to both the Nigerian government and the international community.
Confirming the surrender, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, assured the public that the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Okuama, part of the Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, is an Urhobo community under the leadership of the Ovie. The murder of the 17 soldiers has sparked a controversy, prompting authorities to take swift action in bringing those responsible to justice.