Don’t Drag King Ateke into Your Games to Please Your Paymasters, Ex-IYC President Warned

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Palace of the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Rivers State, His Majesty, King Ateke Michael Tom, has cautioned a former President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Mr. Udengs Eradiri, against attempts to drag the stool of Okochiri Kingdom into what he described as ‘petty, self-serving political narratives.’

The palace, in a statement yesterday, expressed concerns over a recent video allegedly released by Eradiri, in which he made allegations regarding activities at the Okochiri Palace, describing the claims by Eradiri as misleading, unnecessary, and capable of inciting tension in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

The statement, signed by the Special Assistant on Media to King Ateke, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, said it is troubling that instead of Eradiri promoting peace, unity, and sustainable development in the region, he focuses on creating division and misunderstanding through unsubstantiated claims.

Eradiri had alleged in the said video 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.

He further suggested that individuals present at such gatherings were attempting to undermine existing structures.

Responding to these claims, Ogbonna firmly 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.

Ogbonna said that the king has the right to bid for the pipeline surveillance contract if he desires, adding that King Ateke was among those who fought for the emancipation of the region.

He 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.

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.

Ogbonna stated that Eradiri’s comments were driven by vested interests, alleging that his utterances were aimed at pleasing certain sponsors, emphasising that the palace of the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom remains open to all.

According to Ogbonna, “Udengs Eradiri is merely dancing to the tune of his paymasters. He is being sponsored to promote a particular narrative that does not reflect the reality on the 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 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.”

He further disclosed that: “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 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 further advised the former Ijaw youth president to focus on constructive engagement and meaningful contributions that would foster unity, peace, and development in the Niger Delta, rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric.

He reiterated that the Okochiri palace remains a symbol of unity, cultural heritage, and responsible leadership, and must be respected by all.