The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has voiced deep concern over the continued neglect and hardship faced by communities in the Niger Delta, lamenting the slow pace of meaningful intervention despite the region’s immense oil wealth.
The monarch called on the Nigerian government and oil companies to engage directly with affected communities rather than operating through intermediaries, whom he said often distort agreements and fail to deliver on promises. He noted that many Niger Delta communities are still grappling with poor infrastructure, environmental degradation, and limited access to basic services such as clean water and healthcare.
Ogiame Atuwatse III questioned why a region that generates vast revenue for the country continues to lack essentials like electricity, potable water, and quality healthcare. He challenged both government and oil firms to commit even a small fraction of their earnings to improving living conditions, stressing that providing clean water alone would significantly ease the suffering of the people.
Although the Itsekiri people are traditionally peaceful, the Olu of Warri warned that growing frustration is pushing communities to their limits. He said years of neglect and broken promises have fueled anger and a sense of injustice among residents who feel unheard despite the wealth extracted from their land.
The monarch also drew attention to the devastating impact of oil spills and gas flaring, which have destroyed livelihoods and forced many to abandon fishing and farming. He described the crisis as a struggle for survival, noting that prolonged environmental pollution has endangered lives and deepened poverty in a region that should be thriving.
Expressing disappointment over the government’s slow response to protests and repeated failure to fulfill commitments, Ogiame Atuwatse III urged authorities to take decisive action. He called for the environmental cleanup efforts currently underway in Ogoniland to be expanded across all Niger Delta communities affected by oil-related pollution.
