Olu of Warri challenges Asari Dokubo over N2.7tn pipeline claim

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has formally rejected allegations made by Niger Delta activist and former militant leader Asari Dokubo regarding pipeline surveillance contracts. Dokubo claimed that the monarch and other individuals receive N2.7 trillion annually from these security arrangements.

Prince Collins Edema, the monarch’s representative to NNPC Limited and its joint venture partners, issued a statement categorically denying the claims. Edema challenged Dokubo to provide documentary evidence to substantiate the “extraordinary” allegation, noting that unverified statements regarding pipeline infrastructure could heighten ethnic and political tensions in the Niger Delta.

Edema remarked that while Dokubo is a prominent voice in the region, his history of provocative language and militancy does not grant his claims automatic credibility. He emphasized that the allegations must be supported by quality evidence rather than forcefulness alone.