The Delta State Police Command has handed over the self-proclaimed "King of Ewu," Clement Ikolo, to the military following his voluntary surrender. This development, confirmed by the Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, comes amidst heightened tensions and widespread speculation surrounding Ikolo's alleged involvement in the recent killing of 17 military personnel in the Okuama community.
Ikolo, one of eight individuals declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters in connection with the incident, presented himself to Police Commissioner Olufemi Abaniwonda at the state police command headquarters on Thursday evening. Before his surrender, Ikolo vehemently professed his innocence to journalists, asserting his lack of culpability in the matter. However, the decision to hand him over to the military underscores the gravity of the accusations leveled against him and the urgency of the ongoing investigation.
Nigerians have taken to social media to express a range of reactions to the unfolding situation. Some users have questioned the handling of the case, with one commenter sarcastically highlighting the irony of police transferring a civil matter to the military.
Others have raised concerns about the potential for further unrest in the Delta region, urging local authorities to tread carefully to prevent escalation.