Army Frees Delta Monarch Wanted Over Military Killings

The Nigerian Army has released Prince Clement Ikolo Ogenerukevwe, the monarch of Ewu Kingdom in Delta State, after 21 days in its custody. The monarch was initially declared wanted by the Nigerian Army alongside seven others in connection with the deaths of 17 soldiers in the Okuama community of Ughelli Local Government Area on March 14, 2024. The release came after interventions from prominent individuals and a comprehensive reassessment, as stated by Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army. Despite the release, it’s important to note that no one has been absolved of involvement in the incident.

The monarch voluntarily surrendered to the police, who then transferred him to the military. During the handover at the Army headquarters, Major-General Nwachukwu mentioned that the senator representing Delta Central testified to the monarch’s honorable character. This case highlights the complexities of security challenges in the region and the delicate balance between traditional leadership, community dynamics, and military operations in Nigeria.