Standing with the Throne, Speaking for the People: Jakpa Community Affirms Support for Olu of Warri

On Saturday 10th January, 2026 in Jakpa Community of Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, the streets told their own story. As residents gathered and voices rose from land and water alike, the Trust Chairman of Jakpa Community, Deacon Andrew Boyo, declared the community’s full alignment with the position of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, on the long-standing injustices faced by the Itsekiri people. Speaking after the community walk, Boyo said the King’s words merely echoed a truth that has lived with the people for generations.

According to him, Jakpa, like many Itsekiri communities, carries the heavy cost of oil exploration without enjoying its benefits. Polluted creeks, damaged farmlands and shrinking livelihoods have become familiar sights, while development remains distant. “What we witnessed yesterday was not anger,” Boyo said, “but a quiet resilience of a people who have endured much and are now ready to be heard.”

Boyo stressed that the Olu of Warri’s stance is not a sudden reaction but a principled stand rooted in history and responsibility. He noted that the Itsekiri traditional institution has a duty to protect its people and that the monarch’s declaration marks a clear departure from years of silence and neglect. “When the King speaks,” he said, “he speaks with the weight of our ancestors and the hope of our children.”

The Trust Chairman emphasized that the community’s support for the Olu of Warri is total and unwavering. He described the monarch’s leadership as one that gives voice to Itsekiri fishermen whose nets return empty, Itsekiri youths searching for opportunity, and families living with the scars of environmental degradation. “This is about dignity,” Boyo said, “and the right of a people to benefit from the resources beneath their soil.”

Addressing oil companies operating in Itsekiri land, Boyo delivered a firm message: the era of token gestures and unfulfilled promises is over. He called for genuine, transparent development reflected in schools, healthcare, clean water, employment opportunities and environmental restoration. Anything less, he warned, would no longer be acceptable to the people or their institutions.

Boyo concluded by expressing renewed hope inspired by unity and purposeful leadership. He said on Saturday’s gathering in Jakpa showed a community standing shoulder to shoulder with its King, determined to insist on justice and a better future. “The throne exists to serve the people,” he said, “and as one Kingdom, we are resolved to ensure that the wealth taken from our land finally brings well-being to our lives.”