The Nigerian Army has released HRM Clement Ikolo, the traditional ruler of the Okuama community in Delta State, after holding him in military detention for 22 days.
Ikolo surrendered himself to the Nigerian police in Delta State after being listed as wanted by the Defence Headquarters in connection with the deaths of 17 soldiers in the Okuama community. He was then transported to Abuja by the military for further questioning.
The traditional ruler voluntarily surrendered on March 28 after releasing a statement proclaiming his innocence.
“It is a shock to me because I have no involvement in these matters,” Ikolo said. “I do not believe in any actions that involve taking human lives. I have not been able to access the kingdom even as a monarch since I was detained.”
Ikolo received his staff of office on November 16, 2023.
After 22 days of detention in a military facility in Abuja, he was released to Senator Ede Dafianone, who served as his surety.
Details about what transpired during Ikolo’s detention have not been made public, and the military has not released an official statement regarding the situation.
