PRESS RELEASE
Warri Kingdom Denounces False Claims of “Soldier Beating Man for Protesting Against Olu’s Use of Anointing Oil in Shrine”
Warri, Nigeria – March 10, 2024 – Lord_of_Warri, an influential voice in the Warri Kingdom, condemns the recent spread of unverified information and propaganda by Sahara reporters, tarnishing the reputation of the Olu of Warri and the sacred traditions of the kingdom.
Contrary to the false allegations made by Sahara reporters, the protests in the Okere community on March 2nd, 2024, were not against the Olu’s use of olive oil in the shrine. The Olu has always respected the sacredness of each community and offers prayers using strictly traditional items, as clearly depicted in the attached pictures.
The incident in Okere community was instigated by the disgraced deposed former ologbotsere, Ayiri Emami, and his faction of hired thugs. Their disruptive actions aimed to disrupt the “Ugwa Olu,” the royal visitation of Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri, to the people of Okere. These individuals not only attempted to assassinate the Olu but also targeted individuals loyal to the king.
The loyalists of Ayiri Emami have a history of physically assaulting innocent citizens loyal to the Olu of Warri in Okere community since 2021. They have unlawfully formed a parallel youth administration to sow chaos and disorder. Their recent attempt to take the life of one barrister Oki was thwarted by the courageous efforts of the local youth.
On March 2nd, David Iwere, Oyibo Awani, Toju Awani, Lucky Esu, Bumi Ireyefoju, Misan Ogbegbe, Austin Lori, Napoleon Tseke Ogidi, and others mobilized a group of youths to physically assault and threaten the life of the Olu of Warri. These individuals are known associates and loyal thugs of Ayiri Akonu Emami. They were repelled by the gallant youths of Okere and the security forces present. Notably, they also attacked the soldiers and police who were in the area attempting to maintain peace.
The attack on the Olu of Warri and his entourage commenced when they arrived at the Okere Community Town Hall for prayers. The rebellious individuals resisted the Olu’s entry, resorting to physical assault, gunshots, and the hurling of various projectiles. These actions were carried out to fulfill the directives of Ayiri Emami.
In response to the violent acts, the security personnel present were forced to defend themselves and safeguard their arms from being stolen. This was done to protect the life of the Olu of Warri. Unfortunately, the incident resulted in injuries to at least ten people and caused significant damage to properties worth millions of naira.
Security agencies promptly arrested the major perpetrators of this attack against the Olu of Warri at the scene of the incident in Okere Community. However, Bumi Ireyefoju and Misan Ogbegbe, who openly threatened the life of the Olu and his loyal subjects, are currently at large.
The Warri Kingdom stands strong against invaders and enemies, be they foreign or domestic. We staunchly support the Olu of Warri and will defend our throne, our people, and our kingdom with our lives. Ayiri Emami, a mere child, will soon learn from the ancestors why one should never provoke a lion.
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Note to editors:
Please find attached below the images of the Olu of Warri inside the shrine, offering prayers with strictly traditional items. These images refute the claims made by Sahara reporters regarding the use of olive oil.
Chinedu Nzogbu