The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a formal apology to the esteemed Delta State first-class monarch, Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, following an erroneous invitation regarding alleged cases of attempted murder and assault. The invitation, prompted by a petition allegedly authored against the monarch, stirred controversy and raised concerns within the community.

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The palace secretary, Kenneth Uyebi, speaking on behalf of the revered traditional ruler, denounced the invitation as the machination of miscreants and discontented elements within the Itsekiri nation. He revealed that the Warri Area Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Abubakar, promptly tendered an unreserved apology to the Olu of Warri upon realizing the error.

Uyebi affirmed the Olu of Warri’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining peace within his domain, emphasizing that the monarch would have honored the invitation if it were valid. However, with the swift withdrawal of the erroneous letter and no replacement issued, the matter stands resolved from the monarch’s perspective.

Additionally, Fred Olomuro, Chairman of the Okere Community Management Committee/Planning Committee, condemned recent attacks on Okere community, including an assault on the Olu of Warri during his visit. He attributed the attacks to a faction loyal to a former chief, highlighting the unrest within the community.

Prominent Warri chiefs, Koffi Kartey and Wilson Olley, corroborated Olomuro’s account, confirming the aggression directed towards the Olu of Warri’s entourage by youths affiliated with a local figure.

The incident underscores the importance of diligent investigation and accurate communication by law enforcement agencies to prevent unwarranted disruptions and maintain harmony within communities.