Chief Jerry Nkeweshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, demanding the immediate withdrawal and public retraction of a police statement that implicated him in the recent killing of three youths in Okwe community, close to Asaba.
Through his legal representative, Kelechi Nnadi, the traditional ruler described the allegation as entirely unfounded and defamatory.
He emphasized that he was receiving medical treatment in Umunede at the time of the incident and was in the company of several verifiable witnesses. The notice further accused the police of malice and abuse of authority.
The lawyer stressed that an ongoing land dispute mentioned in the police release is already the subject of litigation before a court of competent jurisdiction and should not be prejudicially connected to the homicides. He insisted that any attempt to link his client to the crime constitutes contempt of court and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the chief’s reputation.
As of now, the Delta State Police Command has made no public response to the demand. Tension remains high in Okwe and surrounding communities, with residents urging an impartial and thorough investigation into the killings.
Should the police fail to issue the required clarification within the stipulated period, Chief Nkeweshe’s legal team has indicated it will file formal complaints with the Police Service Commission and pursue civil remedies for defamation and malicious falsehood.
