Concerned Iwere citizens denounce false arms smuggling allegations against Olu of Warri

The Concerned Iwere Citizens have dismissed recent media claims linking the Olu of Warri to arms smuggling, calling them baseless attempts to malign the revered monarch and destabilise the Warri Kingdom

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Concerned Iwere Citizens have strongly condemned recent media reports alleging that His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, is under investigation by the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged arms smuggling plot.

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In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by Elder Tom Tuoyo, the group described the claims as “reckless and malicious fabrications” with no basis in fact, aimed at discrediting the Itsekiri traditional institution and sowing discord.

“His Majesty, the Olu of Warri, has absolutely no connection directly or remotely with the alleged smuggling activities, the procurement of arms, or any supposed plan to instigate unrest,” the statement said.

According to the Concerned Iwere Citizens, the reports not only insult the dignity of the Itsekiri people and their revered monarch but also constitute a dangerous provocation intended to destabilise the peace in Warri Kingdom and Nigeria at large.

The group reaffirmed that since his ascension to the throne, Ogiame Atuwatse III has championed peace, reconciliation, and development across ethnic, social, and political lines. They praised his leadership as ushering in a “new era of hope, renewal, and unity.”

“We view with grave concern the deliberate attempts by unscrupulous elements to drag the Olu of Warri and the sacred Warri Kingdom into fabricated crises through baseless allegations,” they added.

His Majesty, the Olu of Warri, has absolutely no connection directly or remotely with the alleged smuggling activities.” — Elder Tom Tuoyo

Calling for professionalism and objectivity, the group urged the DSS and all relevant security agencies to ensure that investigations are evidence-based and free from political manipulation or bias.

They cautioned against implicating innocent parties, especially traditional institutions, without verified proof.

Furthermore, they advised the media and general public to exercise discretion and responsibility in the dissemination of sensitive information that could inflame existing tensions or provoke unrest.

The group warned that legal action would be taken against individuals or organisations found to be propagating falsehoods or engaging in defamation against the Olu of Warri.

“We remain steadfast and united in our commitment to upholding the peace, progress, and dignity of our people.

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No amount of falsehood, blackmail, or provocation shall derail us from this sacred duty,” the statement concluded.

Quadri Olaitan