King Warns Against Political Manipulation of Okochiri Kingdom
His Majesty King Ateke Michael Tom of the Amanyanabo Palace in Okochiri Kingdom, Rivers State, has issued a warning to Udengus Eladiri, a former Chairman of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC). The King expressed his disapproval of Eladiri’s attempts to involve the Okochiri Kingdom in what he termed “petty and selfish political narratives.”
In a statement released yesterday, the palace expressed alarm over a recent video purportedly shared by Eladiri, where he made unsubstantiated allegations regarding the activities at the Okochiri Palace. The statement labeled these claims as misleading and unnecessary, potentially inflaming tensions in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
The statement, signed by Ifeanyi Ogbonna, Special Assistant to King Ateke on Media, emphasized that rather than fostering peace and unity, Eladiri’s actions seem aimed at creating division and misunderstanding through unfounded assertions.
In the video, Eladiri suggested that the Okochiri Palace was being leveraged to oppose the federal government, particularly concerning the decentralization of pipeline monitoring contracts. He further insinuated that attendees at such gatherings intended to undermine the current governance structures.
Ogbonna decisively rebutted these claims, asserting that the Okochiri Palace maintains its status as a neutral and respected institution committed to promoting dialogue, peace, and development throughout the Niger Delta and beyond.
Ogbonna remarked that King Ateke is entitled to pursue the pipeline monitoring contract if he so wishes, highlighting the King’s historical role as a fighter for the region’s liberation. He noted that the palace is open to all individuals and organizations dedicated to fostering peace and progression within the Niger Delta.
Continuing his defense, Ogbonna alleged that Eladiri’s statements stem from vested interests and are crafted to cater to specific sponsors. He asserted that the palace welcomes anyone willing to engage in dialogue regarding regional concerns. Ogbonna accused Eladiri of promoting a narrative detached from reality, urging him to focus on constructive dialogue rather than divisive rhetoric.
Ogbonna further clarified that the comments attributed to Eladiri regarding an embarrassing incident during a previous palace visit lack any substantiation. He urged Eladiri to provide details if such an event indeed took place. The palace, he emphasized, upholds dignity and respect in all interactions.
In his closing remarks, Ogbonna strongly cautioned Eladiri to cease making reckless statements that utilize the King’s name in ways that could damage the integrity of royal institutions. He encouraged the former Ijaw Youth President to prioritize constructive engagement and contributions that would advance unity and development in the Niger Delta, reinforcing that the Okochiri Palace stands as a symbol of cultural heritage and responsible leadership.
