Warri Chief Condemns Malicious Rumors Against Olu of Warri

Prominent Warri traditional leader, Chief Godday Erewa, has firmly dismissed reports linking the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to an alleged arms procurement deal with a British Army officer. The claims, which surfaced on certain online platforms, have been described by Chief Erewa as “completely unfounded and intended to mislead the public.”

In a statement released on Monday, Chief Erewa who holds the title of Oritsewa of Warri Kingdom and is a Crown Prince of Etikan Kingdom in Ondo State criticized the reports as an affront to the dignity of the Warri throne and the values it represents.

“These allegations are not only unfounded and defamatory but an insult to the integrity of the institution of the Olu of Warri, which has, for centuries, been a bastion of peace, wisdom, and responsible leadership”

Chief Erewa stressed that Ogiame Atuwatse III has been steadfast in his mission to bring about reconciliation and development in Warri and the surrounding regions. According to him, the Olu has focused on unity and progress for the Itsekiri people and other ethnic groups in Delta State since his ascension to the throne.

He urged the public to ignore the allegations, calling them baseless and part of a coordinated effort by detractors and hidden forces intent on stirring ethnic conflict for personal gain.

Speaking further, Chief Erewa urged the Department of State Services (DSS) to publicly clarify the matter, while warning that the Warri Kingdom reserves the right to take legal action against those responsible for spreading defamatory falsehoods.

He called on all Itsekiri sons and daughters, and indeed all Nigerians, to stand by the Olu and remain focused on the ongoing efforts to build a more united and prosperous Warri.