The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has strongly condemned the recent destruction of Chevron Nigeria Limited’s pipeline in the Dibi-Olero-Abiteye Fields by the Niger Delta Liberation Movement(NDLM).
In a statement issued by Prince Collins Edema, the Sole Representative of the Olu of Warri and Liaison Officer to NNPCL and its JV partners, the monarch made it clear that the Itsekiri Nation has no connection to the Niger Delta Liberation Movement. He emphasized that the actions of the group are contrary to the Itsekiri people’s struggle for better opportunities in employment, infrastructure, and welfare.
The Olu of Warri also expressed his sympathies to Chevron Nigeria Limited for the damage caused by the attack, which targeted the Dibi-Olero-Abiteye trunk line and flow stations. He condemned the destruction, which has caused significant disruption in the region’s oil operations.
The statement further appealed to the youth of Itsekiri communities to remain calm, assuring them that ongoing discussions are in place with Chevron regarding unresolved employment issues in host communities. These issues predominantly affect Warri South West, Warri North, and Warri South local government areas.
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Ogiame Atuwatse III reiterated that the Itsekiri Nation’s approach has always been to seek peaceful negotiations with the oil companies and government authorities for a fair and equitable distribution of resources that benefits all parties.
In closing, the Olu called for unity and dialogue, urging that such violent acts do not derail efforts to bring about meaningful change and development in the region. His appeal is for a collaborative effort to ensure peace, progress, and a better future for the Itsekiri people.
This condemnation comes at a time when tensions over employment and welfare issues in oil-producing communities continue to grow, highlighting the need for continued engagement between oil companies and local leaders.
