The Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief (Engr) Oma Eyewuoma, has said the agitation by Itsekiris in demanding for the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) is their legitimate right.
Chief Eyewuoma disclosed this in Warri when he and the Warri Council of Chiefs stormed the venue of the ongoing peaceful protest by the Itsekiri sons and daughters at the
office of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulation Commission, Warri,( NNPC )Zonal office to appreciate the protesters.
He commended the Iwere sons and daughters for their resilient and peaceful conduct on the day three of the protest for the non compliance and non implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
While speaking,the Ologbotsere who spoke in unison with the other chiefs lauded the protesters for their sacrifices and resilience under the rain and the sun.
The chiefs who took turns to commend the protesters and to also pray for progress in Warri Kingdom, spoke with one voice that Itsekiris have been shortchanged for too long hence, it is pertinent to give all the necessary support to His Majesty, Ogiame, Atuwatse III for the development of Iwere land.
According to him, the ongoing struggle is not just for them but for the future generations, therefore, there is need to for perseverance.
He said “we are only demanding what is rightfully ours as Itsekiris and we should be given. The land is blessed with oil and should be for all and not for a few handful of people.
The monarch has taken the step for everyone to benefit from the largesse of our God given wealth. There were so many lies and falsehoods told before now and decision would have been taken if not for this protest as we say enough is enough.”
He said,”the world should hear, listen and sympathize with us so when justice is given, others will benefit and Nigeria will move forward and develop as Itsekiri will show the light through the leadership of our monarch.”
Chief Francis Omatseye while lauding them for their support and commitment said the Memorandum Of Understanding (MoU) was applicable in the past but today is the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) which is of more importance and meets the needs of the people.
“Itsekiris should move forward in oneness and solidarity. Itsekiri cannot and will not fight war against themselves. It’s a peaceful protest.”
He said the monarch cannot be confined to the palace. According to some school of thoughts if an individual feels he has a right to speak concerning what affects Itsekiri people the Olu who is the overall lordship is not in contention, therefore, he has the right to speak on issues that affect his Kingdom by playing the leadership role.
They called on Shell and Chevron Nigeria Limited to respect constituted authority while saying there is only one King in Warri and should be accorded the maximum respect if they want to enjoy the peace of the land.
Chief Brown Mene, Chief Solomon Areyenke, Chief (Mrs) Esther Okotie-Eboh were amongst those present.
Itsekiris fight for rights over implementation of PIA
