Olu of Warri appeals for infrastructure development in Itsekiri coastal communities to improve living conditions and reduce poverty.
His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri has appealed to the Federal and State governments. He also reached out to major oil companies. He urged them to intensify the execution of infrastructural projects in Itsekiri coastal communities of Delta State.
The monarch expressed concern. That his people had remained frustrated, poor and neglected despite their significant contribution to the National oil wealth. The monarch blamed years of regulatory inconsistency and poor engagement by oil firms.
Olu of Warri spoke while addressing news men. This happened after touring several oil fields in Itsekiri riverine communities in Warri North Local Government Area. These include Jakpa, Tebu, Ajamita, Ebrohimi, Udo, Obaghoro, Gbokoda, and Dibi.
The Ogiame Atuwatse III criticized what he described as divide-and-rule tactics by oil companies operating in the area. He noted that such practices had fostered oppression. These tactics were sometimes aided by internal compromise among a few individuals within the Itsekiri community.
The Olu warned oil companies against mistaking the peaceful disposition of Itsekiri people for weakness.
“He noted that for over 60 years, the Itsekiri people have listened to figures, production numbers, and revenue charts. They have also heard the academic explanations. All these were drawn from oil produced on our God-given and legally recognized land.
“But today, we say clearly: those numbers no longer impress us. They do not show the actual reality of the lives of our people on the ground.
“Yes, the records confirm what the nation already knows. The Itsekiri tribe is located in the western corner of the Niger Delta. It is one of the geese that lay the golden eggs for Nigeria.
“Yet, paradoxically, our people stay poor, frustrated, and neglected.”
The Olu of Warri said the situation was not accidental. He attributed it to years of regulatory neglect. Corporate practices that tolerated oppression contributed as well. Additionally, there was internal betrayal driven by greed.
He said he no longer remains silent in the face of growing hardship among his people.
“My people are discouraged. My people are poor. My people are tired. Still, my people will no longer accept being treated as though they do not matter.
“No external actor can truly undermine us, unless someone inside unlocks the door.
“Oil companies, be they International or Nigerian, take advantage of us only when they see our leaders failing us. These leaders are willing to trade our collective destiny for their own personal gain.”
The monarch, nevertheless, commended Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori. The governor was praised for the ongoing road project in Dibi and the Trans Warri–Ode-Itsekiri Bridges and Access Road. The monarch urged the state government to continue developing infrastructure in the coastal areas. This effort aims to give residents a stronger sense of belonging.
He also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his openness to the concerns of the Itsekiri people. Nonetheless, he warned against individuals he described as “usurpers, charlatans and opportunists.” These individuals claim to speak for the community.
“The tolerance for them has failed us. Now is the time for us to replace it with transparency. We also need unity and accountability. Otherwise, we stay victims of a system we secretly allow,” the Olu of Warri said.
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