In a significant turn of events surrounding the investigation into the tragic killings of 17 military officers in Okuoma, Delta State, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe, the traditional ruler of the Ewu kingdom, has been released by the Nigerian Army. The release came during a brief ceremony at the Nigerian Army Headquarters in Abuja, where Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, handed him over to Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central.
General Nwachukwu elucidated that after meticulous scrutiny of all available information regarding the incident, the Army has reached a preliminary observation. While investigators have not conclusively established the culpability of the traditional ruler, there is still insufficient evidence to exonerate any party at this stage of the investigation.
Eminent personalities intervened and the monarch voluntarily surrendered, influencing the decision to release Oghenerukvwe. However, it is contingent upon his commitment to assisting ongoing investigations. The Army, in its appeal, urged other suspects named in the case to present themselves for questioning.
Oghenerukvwe surrendered himself to authorities hours after the Defence Headquarters declared him and seven others wanted in connection with the killings of the military personnel on a peacekeeping mission to Delta State in March. Consequently, among those declared wanted were individuals like Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, and Reuben Baru, among others.
On March 14, attackers targeted 17 military personnel, comprising a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 13 soldiers. The brutal assault took place in Okuama community, Ughelli South Local Government Area, resulting in tragic fatalities. The nation and beyond felt deep shockwaves due to the loss of these brave servicemen.
The incident underscores the dangers faced by military personnel in conflict zones, emphasizing the need for security measures.
The soldiers responded to a distress call amid tensions between the Okuama and Okoloba communities over a dispute.
Reports revealed youths ambushed soldiers in a communal clash; authorities found their mutilated bodies in nearby rivers.
The nation mourned their loss, President Bola Tinubu attending their burial at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
The tragic incident sparked nationwide sorrow, highlighting the sacrifices made by military personnel in service.
The presence of dignitaries underscored the solemnity of the occasion and honored the fallen soldiers’ bravery and sacrifice.
Oghenerukvwe’s release is a significant development, revealing the case’s complexity and accountability challenges. Consequently, the nation awaits updates on justice for the fallen soldiers and the resolution of communal tensions. Moreover, ongoing inquiry sheds light on the case’s intricacies and underscores the need for accountability.
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