‘I’m innocent’: Delta chief denies role in incident, seeks clarification from police

Chief Jerry Nkeweshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, has requested that the Delta State Police Command clarify a statement that referenced him in connection with an incident in the Okwe community near Asaba, Delta State.

The police had earlier announced that they were seeking certain individuals for questioning regarding an attack in the area on November 24. The Command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, confirmed that an investigation into the incident was underway.

Responding through his lawyer, Kelechi Nnadi, Chief Nkeweshe denied any involvement and stated that he was not present in Okwe or within Asaba at the time. According to the lawyer, the chief had travelled that morning to Umunede for medical attention and remained there with witnesses throughout the day before returning to Asaba to meet with his legal team.

The lawyer stated:

“On the morning of November 24, 2025, Chief Nkeweshe left Asaba at approximately 8:30 am for medical reasons and stayed in Umunede throughout the day. He later returned in the evening and proceeded to our law office for a scheduled briefing related to a court matter fixed for November 25 at the Delta State High Court, Issele-Uku.”

He added that, based on this account, his client could not have been present at the scene of the incident on that date.

The lawyer also called on the Commissioner of Police to provide clarity on aspects of the investigation that relate to his client, stating that transparency would help prevent misunderstandings.

Nkeweshe has asked the Commissioner of Police and the Police Public Relations Officer to issue a public clarification regarding the earlier statement within 14 days. The lawyer noted that if this is not done, his client may seek legal redress to protect his reputation.

“We request a public clarification within 14 days to address any misconceptions regarding our client,” the lawyer said, adding that his team is prepared to pursue lawful options should the matter remain unresolved.

He further encouraged law enforcement authorities to ensure a fair and impartial investigation into the Okwe incident and asked that individuals not connected to the matter be excluded from speculation.

The lawyer also urged journalists to verify information carefully before publication, especially in matters under investigation.

“Members of the press are encouraged to conduct independent verification before publishing sensitive information, particularly when such reports may cause public misunderstanding,” he said.

According to the statement, the disputed land matter referenced in some reports remains before a competent court, and Chief Nkeweshe has expressed confidence in the legal process.

“Chief Jerry Nkeweshe remains a law-abiding citizen and will continue to rely on the justice system to safeguard his name and rights,” the statement concluded.