Following the release of the Delta Monarch, Clement Ikolo, the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff for the roles they played in securing his release.
News About Nigeria reported that Ikolo, who is the King of the Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom in the Ughelli South local government area of Delta State, submitted himself to the police after he was declared wanted alongside seven others.
He was declared wanted in connection with the deaths of the 17 soldiers killed on March 14, 2024, at Okuama community in Delta State.
Following his detention, other traditional leaders in the state, together with Senators Ned Nwoko (Delta North) and Joel Onowakpo-Thomas (Delta South), who partnered with Senator Dafinone, have been petitioning relevant authorities in order to secure his release.
The monarch was, however, released and handed over to Senator Dafinone on Friday morning at the Defence Headquarters, with an agreement that the Senator would make the monarch available whenever his attention was needed.
Senator Dafinone conveyed his appreciation in a statement, saying, “Today, I commend the swift and decisive actions taken by President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Defence Staff in addressing this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserved. The release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, brings a sense of relief and reassurance to our community.
“I am deeply grateful to Mr President, Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and the entire military leadership for their unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.”
