By Austin Ogwuda
The traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom, HRM Ovie Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe I, was among the lucky passengers who boarded the ill-fated Air Peace from Abuja to Asaba on Friday.
The Secretary of the Ewu Council of Chiefs, Chief Henry Abizor gave the confirmation in a press release today (Saturday).
He stated that as a result of the near-miss Air Peace aircraft incident in which the revered monarch of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom was a passenger, the conferment of chieftaincy titles earlier scheduled to hold today, 11th October 2025 (Saturday) in Ewu town, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State has been shifted.
According to the release, “The distressing experience, which could have ended in tragedy, has left the nation and our community in deep reflection and gratitude to God Almighty for His divine mercy and protection.
“The Palace and the entire people of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom give profound thanks to Almighty God for sparing the precious life of our King, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, and all other passengers aboard the aircraft.
“The hand of divine preservation was evident, and we return all glory to God for turning what could have been a national tragedy into a testimony of grace and deliverance.
“In light of this incident and the emotional weight it carries”, it went on, “the Palace, after due consultation with the Ewu-Urhobo Traditional Council, has deemed it respectful and prudent to reschedule the Chieftaincy Title Conferment Ceremony to November 2025.
“This adjustment allows for a period of thanksgiving, reflection, and renewed celebration of life, ensuring that the forthcoming traditional event proceeds with the decorum, peace of mind, and joy befitting such an esteemed occasion.
“The new date in November 2025 will be officially communicated in due course. The Palace remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring all deserving awardees with grandeur and dignity reflective of their service and loyalty to the Kingdom.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our subjects, well-wishers, and friends of the Kingdom for their understanding, prayers, and steadfast support.
“The Palace looks forward to celebrating this significant occasion in an atmosphere of thanksgiving and unity when the time comes”, stated the release obtained by Daily Shine Nigeria.
Air Peace Management speaks
Meantime, the Airline’s management has confirmed in a statement that in alignment with safety, the aircraft returned to the ramp, and all passengers disembarked without incident.
The statement reads: “Air Peace confirms that the Abuja–Asaba flight scheduled for today experienced an aborted take-off during initial departure procedures.
“In full accordance with safety protocols, the aircraft safely returned to the ramp, and all passengers disembarked without incident. A replacement aircraft was immediately deployed to continue the flight, ensuring minimal disruption to passenger travel time.
“Our engineering team commenced a thorough inspection of the initial aircraft as part of our standard safety checks.
“We wish to reassure the public that safety is, and will always remain the cornerstone of our operations. The swift deployment of an alternate aircraft reflects our commitment to operational excellence and passenger confidence”.
Credit: Daily Shine Nigeria & Vanguard
