By Austin Ogwuda
“It took Sen. Ned Nwoko, a non-Urhobo, to negotiate the release of the Ewu monarch,” wrote socio-political critic Zik Gbemre in a recent commentary.
This statement highlights Senator Ned Nwoko’s decisive intervention in securing the release of His Royal Majesty Ovie Clement Ikolo, the Ewu monarch, from military detention. Gbemre, a renowned social critic and Coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition (NDPC), expressed dismay over what he described as apathy from influential leaders within the monarch’s own Urhobo community until Senator Nwoko took proactive steps to address the situation.
The monarch had voluntarily surrendered after being declared wanted, yet his detention sparked widespread concerns. While other Delta State Senators—Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) and Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (Delta South)—later joined the effort, Nwoko spearheaded the negotiation with military authorities in Abuja, ensuring the monarch’s release.
Gbemre lamented the tragic death of Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko, President-General of the Okuama community, who allegedly died due to torture in military custody. In his write-up, Gbemre criticized the military’s treatment of community leaders, stating, “First, the military humiliated the Ewu monarch, arresting him like a common criminal. Now the Okuama chairman has died in military custody, with Prof. Ekpokpo and other leaders still languishing there. Nobody knows their condition as we speak.”
This is not the first time Senator Nwoko has intervened to secure justice for the oppressed. Earlier this year, after troops of the 63 Brigade uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing factory in Onicha-Olona and arrested eight family members, many feared a protracted detention. However, Nwoko engaged with the Brigade Commander and facilitated the release of four detainees while continuing efforts to ensure fair treatment for the others.
Despite skepticism that his involvement might have been motivated by local ties, Nwoko’s actions consistently transcend ethnic and regional boundaries. The release of the Ewu monarch, who hails from Delta Central, further demonstrates his commitment to humanity, irrespective of creed or color.
The monarch himself acknowledged Nwoko’s impactful role during a visit to the senator’s Maitama residence in Abuja, accompanied by his family. “The day you came to visit me was the day I regained hope,” the monarch said, expressing profound gratitude.
Senator Nwoko’s advocacy for justice is not confined to Nigeria. Globally, he has pushed for reparations for African nations from colonial powers. In a letter to former colonial rulers, he demanded $5 trillion in reparations, apologies, and the return of stolen artifacts, urging investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Africa to address the lingering effects of colonial exploitation.
The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, acknowledged Nwoko’s demands in a letter dated December 11, 2023. He affirmed that the UK government is addressing the issues with honesty and openness, pledging to confront the shared history of the transatlantic slave trade.
Senator Nwoko’s dedication to justice, equity, and humanitarian causes is evident in his actions. Whether liberating individuals from unjust detentions or challenging global powers to right historical wrongs, he exemplifies a tireless quest for justice and progress.
In the words of Gbemre and countless others who have witnessed his efforts, Nwoko is indeed “a humanist to the core,” driven by an unyielding desire to uplift humanity without hidden agendas.