Concerns Mount Over Whereabouts of Traditional Ruler Clement Ikolo: Family and Friends Seek Answers

The absence of Traditional Ruler Clement Ikolo of Ewu Kingdom in Delta State has left his family and friends in a state of uncertainty for over a month since he was detained by the Nigerian military.

In a statement issued by Abizor Henry, Secretary of the Ewu-Urhobo Conventional Council of Chiefs, it was elucidated that despite attempts by the monarch’s legal counsel to facilitate family visits, access has been denied.

“Despite commendation from the Chief of Defence Staff for his voluntary surrender, efforts to reach him by the Conventional Council of Chiefs of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, as well as his relatives and friends in Nigeria and abroad, have been futile,” the statement lamented.

The monarch voluntarily surrendered himself to the police and was subsequently transferred to military custody after being declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters in connection to the killing of 17 military personnel in the Okuama community of the state.

Henry’s statement, titled “True story of the arrest of monarch of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom over Okuoma killing,” delves into Ikolo’s contentious ascension to the throne.

Facing opposition from contenders to the throne, even after his nomination was affirmed by the traditional rulers’ committee, the monarch encountered significant hurdles, the statement revealed.

“A few weeks before his coronation ceremony, the monarch attempted to enter the kingdom’s headquarters to meet with his people, but was met with armed opposition. Despite his efforts to maintain law and order, his appeals to the Nigerian Police Force were rebuffed, resulting in the vandalism of police vehicles,” the statement added.

In the midst of these challenges, the monarch sought medical treatment abroad, returning on February 23, 2024. However, his efforts at reconciliation were interrupted by the tragic incident involving the killing of military personnel.

Upon learning of being declared wanted by the military, the monarch voluntarily surrendered himself to the Delta State Commissioner of Police for interrogation to clear his name. He was subsequently handed over to the military and has been in custody since.

Expressing concern over his health, the statement appeals for his prompt release from detention.