3 killed as youths burn palace in Delta

THREE persons were killed while the palace of the traditional ruler of Jesse community in Ethiope West Council area of Delta state, Erhiekevwe 1, JP Ovie of Idjerhe kingdom was on Tuesday set ablaze by rampaging youths.
About seven other houses were allegedly set on fire.
At least 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with the arson by the police, as scores of residents fled to nearby communities, while the traditional ruler is said to be safe.
The youth were said to have been angered by the shooting of three persons by the Joint Task Force officials who allegedly came to the village on the orders of the traditional ruler over a suspected ritualist in the town.
The youth had called for the head of the suspected ritualist but when their expectation went contrary, they decided to set the palace ablaze.
Confirming the report, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Charles Muka said investigation into the crisis is in progress.
Subsequently, the Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday adopted a motion calling on Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to quickly direct the state Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to move into Jesse to restore peace and order.
In moving the motion which came under matter of urgent public importance, Honourable John Nani, representing Ethiope West, said there was anarchy in the town leading to the burning down of the palace. Nani said there was the urgent need to stop the crisis to allow proper investigation into the matter.
Other legislators, including Monday Igbuya, Efe Ofobruku, Dennis Omovie, Keston Okoro who spoke on the issue stressed the need to deploy security agents to Jesse in order to forestall spillover of the crises.
Deputy speaker, Basil Ganagana who presided over the sitting also condemned the crisis in Jesse.