Clement Ikolo, the traditional leader of the Ewu kingdom, was surprised to find out that he was listed as a wanted person in relation to the Okuama killings.
The PUNCH reported that on March 14, 2024, some angry young people killed officers and soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion during a peacekeeping mission in the Okuama community.
The Defence Headquarters announced on Thursday that they are looking for eight people for their involvement in the recent killing.
The people being sought are Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (also known as Amagben), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukeywe, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.
In a video that went viral, the king, speaking from his hiding place, declared that he had nothing to do with the killings.
He expressed his surprise at finding his name on the wanted list for the crime.
He stated, “I want to make it clear that I have not been able to enter my kingdom up till now. I am not involved in the killings. This is a grave crime against humanity, and it goes against my Catholic faith.
“I have no connection to it in any way. I received my staff of office on November 16, 2023, and it was very turbulent. The government is aware of this, so I am surprised that the government is surprised.”
The king called on the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to identify those responsible for the act and hold them accountable.
