The Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom, Ojoye Engr. Dr. Oma Eyewuoma, has rejected allegations linking Itsekiri traditional institutions to the crisis in Ogidigben community, describing reports circulating in the media as false and misleading. This position was conveyed in a press statement issued by his media aide, Eboma Tuoyo Michael, in response to a recent media briefing by Ayiri Emami.
According to the statement, the violence in Ogidigben, which reportedly resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property and the displacement of residents, was the outcome of a series of threats and coordinated actions already known to key stakeholders in Warri Kingdom. The Ologbotsere’s office insisted that the attacks were not sudden, accusing individuals now portraying themselves as peace advocates of attempting to alter the narrative after the damage had been done.
The statement also criticised what it described as repeated efforts to link the Palace of the Olu of Warri to the crisis. It clarified that at the time the allegations were being made, the Palace and the Ologbotsere were involved in lawful, pre-arranged cultural rites that were public, peaceful and firmly rooted in Itsekiri tradition.
Furthermore, the statement faulted the accusers for failing to address the burning of Ogidigben and the alleged involvement of armed youths linked to them. It argued that this silence weakens claims of innocence and peace-building, while further marginalising victims whose suffering has been omitted from public discussions.
The Ologbotsere’s office called for accountability, urging security agencies, the Delta State Government, the Federal Government and traditional authorities to rely on facts and evidence rather than rhetoric. It stressed that lasting peace in Itsekiriland must be founded on truth and respect for traditional institutions, warning that justice for Ogidigben cannot be achieved through distortion or selective narratives.
