Olu of Warri Warns Oil Firms: "Peace Without Justice is No Longer Sustainable"

The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, has issued an unequivocal warning to Chevron Nigeria Limited and other international oil companies (IOCs) operating in Itsekiriland. Speaking on Saturday, January 10, 2026, after an extensive tour of riverine communities in the Warri North Local Government Area, the monarch declared that the era of "business as usual" is over. He emphasized that the Itsekiri people have endured over 60 years of oil production that has generated immense wealth for the nation while leaving host communities in a state of chronic poverty and environmental decay.

In a strongly worded statement titled "A Statement of Truth, Responsibility, and Resolve," the Olu rejected the reliance on production statistics and revenue charts often used by oil firms to justify their presence. He stated:

"For over 60 years, oil has flowed from our land, yet our people remain poor, discouraged, and tired. Those numbers no longer impress us, because they do not reflect the actual reality of the lives of our people on the ground."

The monarch specifically called out Chevron, noting that while other companies moved offshore to avoid community friction, Chevron made the decision to remain onshore. He warned that the peaceful nature of the Itsekiri should not be mistaken for weakness, adding that "peaceful people can become desperate people" when faced with decades of neglect.

A significant portion of the monarch’s address focused on internal issues within Itsekiriland. He accused certain "self-styled leaders" and middlemen of trading the collective destiny of the people for personal gain.

Moving forward, the Olu announced that the Palace will no longer remain passive but will actively stand with oil-bearing communities to demand justice and partnership. He outlined clear priorities for development under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA):

The monarch concluded by urging other operators—including Renaissance (Shell's successor), Seplat, Heritage, Conoil, and Sahara Energy—to avoid repeating the failures of the past. He expressed appreciation for President Bola Tinubu’s "listening ear" but insisted that tangible grassroots change is the only way to ensure lasting peace in the Niger Delta.

What do you think about the Olu of Warri's bold stance against the oil companies? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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