Sole Rep Dismisses Oil Theft Claims Against Olu of Warri

The Office of the Sole Representative to the Olu of Warri and Liaison Officer to NNPCL has strongly condemned accusations claiming that a company under the monarch’s leadership is involved in the vandalism of oil pipelines and illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta.

At a press briefing on Monday in Warri, February 3, Collins Edema, Sole Representative of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR dismissed the allegations as baseless and part of a targeted smear campaign designed to damage the reputation of the revered monarch and the Itsekiri people.

“These claims are not only false but also a deliberate attempt to undermine the efforts of His Majesty, who has consistently worked to promote peace, unity, and development in the Niger Delta,” Edema stated.

He described the allegations, which falsely link the monarch to criminal activities such as oil theft and pipeline vandalism, as an attack on the long-standing integrity of both His Majesty and the Itsekiri communities, who have contributed positively to Nigeria’s economic and political progress.

Edema noted the monarch’s role in fostering positive relationships within the oil and gas sector, as well as with local and national authorities.

“His Majesty has always advocated for the protection of national assets, sustainable economic growth, and peaceful conflict resolution. These core values are in direct contrast to the false accusations against him. It is inconceivable that a leader who has fought for peace and progress would engage in actions that threaten the economic welfare of his people and the nation,” he said.

He further warned that such unfounded allegations would not be tolerated, as they represent an affront not only to the Olu of Warri but to the Itsekiri people as a whole.

“These false allegations are an insult to His Majesty and an attack on the Itsekiri Nation,” Edema asserted.

The spokesperson also noted that the spread of misinformation could destabilise the Niger Delta and harm Nigeria’s broader economy. According to him, tarnishing the reputation of a respected leader and the false claims could deter investors and undermine trust between local communities and key players in the oil and gas industry.

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Speaking further, Edema called on the media to act responsibly and uphold high journalistic standards, urging reporters to thoroughly vet allegations before publishing.

“Sensationalism must never take precedence over truth,” he added.

In response to the allegations, the Sole Representative urged the federal government, security agencies, and international partners to investigate the origins of the smear campaign and hold those responsible accountable.

“We will not rest until the truth is fully established. We will not be intimidated into silence, nor will we allow lies to overshadow the truth,” he stated, stressing that the Itsekiri people stand for justice, fairness, and truth.

Edema also called for unity among the Itsekiri people and their supporters, urging them to stand firm in defense of their monarch and the core values of peace and progress that have always defined their community.