PRESS RELEASE: DEFENDING TRUTH, CONDEMNING VIOLENCE – UIY WARRI SOUTH WEST REPS DECRY OGIDIGBEN INVASION, MISINFORMATION, AND ATTACKS ON LIVES AND PROPERTY
The Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths (UIY), the apex youth body of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality, represented by 4th Vice President, Comrade Asin Blessing, P.R.O, Comrade Gbubemi Ejesi, and Treasurer Comrade Ayemidejo Omawumi Favour, issues this press release to address the disturbing chain of events surrounding the crisis in Ogidigben.
This statement is borne out of a moral obligation to defend truth, protect lives, and preserve peace and unity within Warri Kingdom. UIY leadership from Warri South West strongly condemns the gruesome invasion of Ogidigben, which resulted in loss of life, widespread arson, and destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
After the gruesome murder of Emiko, another issue of particular concern is the burning of the residence of Chief Captain John Okpeyo Daje and the destruction of his vehicles, as well as the terror unleashed on innocent residents, many of whom were forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in surrounding bushes for safety.
Hence, we find it deeply troubling that these violent acts were preceded and accompanied by a deliberate misinformation campaign aimed at misleading the public and inciting hatred.
UIY unequivocally condemns attempts to unjustly drag the revered Palace of the Olu of Warri into unfounded allegations linked to the tragic killing of Mr. Emiko Onuwaje, a matter currently under investigation by security agencies.
Let it be stated clearly and without ambiguity: the Palace of the Olu of Warri has no involvement whatsoever, directly or indirectly, in the killing of Mr. Onuwaje or in the crisis that engulfed Ogidigben. Allegations suggesting palace complicity or interference are baseless, malicious, and calculated to undermine a sacred institution that has consistently stood for justice, peace, and unity among the Itsekiri people.
UIY leaders from Warri South West note with concern that at the time these allegations were being peddled, the Palace was engaged in pre-scheduled and publicly known cultural activities, including the Ghighọ́n Aghọ́fẹn celebrations and installation of chiefs, conducted openly and peacefully in line with Itsekiri customs. The attempt to conflate these lawful cultural events with later violent incidents in Ogidigben is dishonest and intended to confuse the public.
Furthermore, we are equally alarmed by credible reports of coordinated mobilisation of armed youths, allegedly driven by personal grudges and political vendettas, to invade Ogidigben and target individuals perceived to be loyal to the Palace. Such actions represent a dangerous descent into lawlessness and pose a grave threat to communal coexistence within Warri Kingdom.
We also condemn the hypocrisy of those who hastily issue public accusations while remaining silent on the killing, arson, and destruction of properties suffered by Ogidigben indigenes.
The attempt to accuse Chief Captain John Okpeyo Daje, who was reportedly in Warri at the material time, of orchestrating violence in his own ancestral home is not only illogical but malicious.
While we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr. Emiko Onuwaje, we warn against the exploitation of a tragic death for personal revenge or political manipulation. Turning grief into a weapon of incitement risks escalating tensions and plunging Warri Kingdom into an avoidable and wider crisis.
Consequently, we call on the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Delta State Government, and all relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the killing of Mr. Onuwaje, the invasion of Ogidigben, and the destruction of lives and properties.
We further urge the immediate strengthening of security presence in and around Ogidigben to prevent further attacks and reassure displaced residents. It is important to note that till date, a lot of indigenes from Ogidigben are still hiding in the bush for safety.
In conclusion, the representatives of Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths (UIY) from Warri South West reaffirm our unwavering confidence in the Olu of Warri and his Palace as symbols of unity and moral authority. We call on all Itsekiri sons and daughters to reject violence, shun misinformation, and embrace dialogue and lawful engagement. Truth will prevail, peace must be restored, and justice must be allowed to take its full course in the collective interest of the Itsekiri nation.
Signed:
Comr. Asin,
4th Vice President, Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths (UIY)
Comr. Gbubemi Ejesi,
Public Relations Officer, Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths (UIY)
Comr. Ayemidejo Omawumi Favour,
Treasurer,
Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths (UIY)
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