Wanted Delta monarch, Clement Ikolo, declares innocence amid allegations of involvement in killing of 17 soldiers

The newly appointed traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, HRM Clement Ikolo, has strongly denied any involvement in the tragic incident where 17 soldiers lost their lives.

Despite being listed among the eight individuals wanted by the Nigerian Army Defence Headquarters, he vehemently refutes these allegations.

Expressing his shock and dismay, he emphasized his staunch opposition to any form of militia activities.

Ikolo asserted that he would never engage in such heinous acts and reiterated his commitment to peace and harmony within his community.

In a recent interview, he condemned the killing of the soldiers, emphasizing that such violence goes against his personal beliefs and his faith as a devout Catholic.

He said, “I am completely astonished and taken aback to find my name listed among wanted persons as the monarch of the kingdom. I want to make it unequivocally clear that I have no involvement whatsoever in the killings.

“I categorically deny any encouragement or involvement in any act of violence. Such actions are fundamentally against my faith as a Catholic and my religious beliefs as a Christian. It is a serious crime that I condemn in the strongest terms.

“The army must conduct a thorough investigation in the appropriate places to ensure justice prevails. I am not implicated in this matter.”

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“Currently, there are government plans to organize a meeting aimed at reconciling differences within the kingdom. This initiative aims to pave the way for me to assume my role as the monarch and lead the community forward.

“At present, I have been unable to establish my council or undertake any meaningful activities within the kingdom. I am essentially in the dark about the situation and am eager for a resolution to these misunderstandings”, Ikolo added