Sole representative of the Olu of Warri to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and its joint venture partners, NNPCL/JV partners Prince Collins Edema, has dismissed as tissues of lies allegations by some that a company under the chairmanship of the Olu of Warri Ogiame Atuwatse III was behind pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta region.
At a press briefing yesterday at the palace of the Olu of Warri in Warri South local government area, Delta State, Prince Edema said it was unfortunate that some persons could come up with such cheap, malicious, and callous allegations to tarnish the image of a reputable monarch contributing substantially to the growth and development of his kingdom, the Niger Delta, and the nation at large.
Flanked by the Palace Administrator Chief Samuel Omaebeyinje and Mr Ben Eyitemi Eburajolo, Prince Edema called on security operatives to unearth those behind the allegation and ensure they were dealt with in accordance with the law.
He said: ” Stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, We stand before you today to address a deeply troubling and unfounded allegation directed at our revered monarch, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, The Olu of Warri, a steadfast advocate for peace, unity, and sustainable development.
“False claims have surfaced, suggesting that a company under His Majesty’s chairmanship is sponsoring the vandalization of oil and gas pipelines/illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta. This accusation is not only false but a deliberate act of blackmail aimed at tarnishing the image of a king who has dedicated his reign to fostering peace, economic prosperity, and social progress for the Itsekiri people and the entire Niger Delta. “
Continuing, Prince Edema described the allegation as also an attack on the integrity of Itsekiri nation, stressing that those behind it should be meant to tender unreserved apology to the monarch and Itsekiri nation.
“This is not just an attack on our monarch but an attack on the integrity of the Itsekiri Nation. “, he said.
“The Itsekiri people have always played a crucial role in the stability and economic advancement
of Nigeria. These allegations seek to undermine not only our king’s reputation but also the contributions of our people. Such falsehoods will not be tolerated, and we demand an immediate retraction. “, he added.
Edema further spoke glowingly of the monarch and Itsekiri nation, urging the federal government and the international community to be actively involved in protecting responsible citizens from defamation.
His words : ” Since ascending the throne, His Majesty has been a pillar of peace and progress. His leadership has been defined by wisdom, diplomacy and a commitment to well-being of his people. With a strong academic background and vast experience, he has worked tirelessly to promote unity, economic growth, and social development within Warri Kingdom and beyond.
“His reign has been marked by significant efforts to strengthen relationships between Warri Kingdom and key stakeholders in the oil and gas sector, governmental bodies, and international investors. His shuttle diplomacy has attracted investment, promoted infrastructural development, and ensured that Warri remains a beacon of stability in the Niger Delta. His Majesty has consistently advocated for the protection of national assets, sustainable economic growth, and peaceful resolutions to conflicts. These core values are in direct contrast to the baseless accusations being leveled against him. It is inconceivable that a leader who has fought for peace and progress would engage in actions that threaten the economic lifeline of his own people and the nation at large.
“The Itsekiri Nation has a long-standing reputation for excellence, trade, diplomacy, and contribution to national development. Throughout history, the Itsekiri people have played an instrumental role in shaping the economic and political landscape of Nigeria. As a people deeply connected to commerce and governance, the Itsekiri have continuously worked towards national unity and economic prosperity. For decades, our lands have hosted major oil installations, export terminals, and refineries, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
” These false allegations, therefore, are not just an insult to His Majesty but an affront to the Itsekiri Nation as a whole. Accusing a people who have given so much to Nigeria’s economic stability of sabotage is both unjust and unacceptable.
“The Itsekiri people have always stood for justice, fairness, and truth. Our monarch has been unjustly maligned, and we will not rest until the truth is fully established. There is a pressing need for the government, security agencies, and the international community to invest those behind these baseless accusations. Those who have orchestrated this campaign of misinformation must be held accountable for their actions.
“His Majesty has always maintained a strong working relationship with the Nigerian government, security forces, and economic stakeholders to ensure that the Niger Delta remains stable and productive. It is only right that these same institutions step forward to defend the truth and ensure that justice prevails.
“Nigeria’s leadership has a responsibility to protect its citizens from defamation and wrongful accusations. Government institutions, law enforcement agencies, and security forces must ensure that false allegations are not weaponized against law-abiding citizens, traditional rulers, or communities.
“The stability of the Niger Delta is vital to the overall economic health of the nation. Any attempt to tarnish the image of key stakeholders in the region should be treated as a threat to national security. The government must act swiftly to discredit these false claims and reassure the people that justice will always prevail.
“The international community also has a role to play in ensuring that credible leaders are not unfairly targeted. Organizations involved in human rights, governance, and economic development should be vigilant in identifying and exposing smear campaigns aimed at discrediting respected figures”
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
