The traditional ruler of Okochiri Kingdom in Rivers State, King Ateke Michael Tom, has cautioned former President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Udengs Eradiri, against dragging his name into what he described as ‘petty, self-serving political narratives.’
Eradiri had in a video that has gone viral on social media, alleged that the Okochiri Palace was being used as a venue for discussions that oppose the Federal Government, particularly on the issue of decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts.
The former IYC president further suggested that individuals present at such gatherings were attempting to undermine existing structures.
But, Ateke, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt expressed concerns the video released by Eradiri, in which he made allegations regarding activities at the Okochiri Palace.
He described the claims by former IYC president as misleading, unnecessary, and capable of inciting tension in the oil rich Niger Delta region.
The statement, which was signed by the Special Assistant to the King on Media, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, said it is troubling that instead of Eradiri promoting peace, unity, and sustainable development in the region, he rather appears focused on creating division and misunderstanding through unsubstantiated claims.
Ogbonna refuted the allegations, stating that the Okochiri Palace remains a neutral and respected institution dedicated to fostering dialogue, peace, and development across the Niger Delta and beyond.
He stated that Ateke has the right to bid for the pipeline surveillance contract if he desires, adding that the King was among those who fought for the emancipation of the region.
The palace spokesman said: “The palace of the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom is open to all well-meaning individuals and groups committed to the peace, unity, and progress of the Niger Delta.
“The palace serves the interest of all Niger Deltan and it is not you, Eradiri, that should determine who visits and the reasons for visits.
“The issues of the pipeline contract in itself is not the Federal Government. You cannot say that discussions around a contract is an attack on the Federal Government. Contracts are to be bidded for and we are happy that we have a lot of Niger Delta sons, who have built capacity to be able to protect Government critical infrastructure.
“It is something that we all should celebrate that our people are building potentials. It is the duty of the Federal Government to encourage those who have built capacity and encourage them.
“I urge you to leave the hallowed palace of Okochiri Kingdom out of your politics and give attention to spread of sustainable peace and development in the region.”
Ogbonna stressed that, as a traditional ruler, King Ateke has a responsibility to listen to diverse viewpoints and engage stakeholders on issues affecting the region, noting that such engagements are essential for conflict resolution and community advancement.
He said: “I remain a traditional ruler, not a politician. My role is to promote peace, stability, and development, not to engage in political battles or campaigns for or against any government.”
The palace spokesman said that Eradiri’s comments were driven by vested interests, alleging that his utterances were aimed at pleasing certain sponsors and that the palace of the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom remains open to all.
Ogbonna said: “Udengs Eradiri is merely dancing to the tune of his paymasters. It is clear that he is being sponsored to promote a particular narrative that does not reflect the reality on ground. The palace of the King is an open institution where individuals and groups are free to come and present their concerns and grievances.”
“In this instance, the King only engaged with individuals who played significant roles in the struggle for the emancipation of the Niger Delta.
“The issue of the pipeline surveillance contract, which Mr. Eradiri referenced, has long expired. In fact, there is a general call for transparency, including an open bidding process that will allow all qualified stakeholders to participate.
“What His Majesty has consistently upheld is the right of stakeholders, particularly former agitators, to assemble, deliberate, and express their views on matters affecting the region. Such engagements are legitimate and should not be misrepresented.
“It is unfortunate that Mr. Eradiri has chosen to align himself with narratives that are not only misleading but also detrimental to the unity and progress of the Niger Delta. His statements appear designed to create unnecessary tension and to incite division among the people.
“Regarding the individual he referred to as Richard, it is important to clarify that he is a Prince of the Kingdom who has established himself legitimately long before recent developments in the sector. Attempts to discredit him are both baseless and unwarranted.
“Mr. Eradiri also claimed that he was embarrassed during a previous visit to the palace in relation to an appointment matter. We challenge him to provide details of such an incident, as there is no record of any such occurrence. The palace maintains dignity and respect in all its engagements.
“We therefore strongly caution Mr. Eradiri to desist from making reckless statements and from using the name of the King in a manner that undermines the dignity of the royal institution. The King occupies a revered position and should not be drawn into baseless controversies. He should stop this forthwith.” Ogbonna added.
