HEADLINE | Posted: Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Olu of Warri‘s aide decries attempt to tarnish monarch’s image


Olu of Warri

By Jimitota Onoyume

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 that a company under the Chairmanship of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III was behind pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering activities in Niger Delta.

Addressing newsmen, 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 allegation 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, Samuel Omaebeyinje and Mr. Ben Eyitemi Eburajolo, Edema called on security operatives to unearth those behind the allegation and ensure they were dealt with in accordance with the law.

He said: “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.

“This is not just an attack on our monarch but an attack on the integrity of the Itsekiri Nation.

“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.”

Edema further spoke glowingly of the monarch and Itsekiri nation, saying: “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 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.”

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