Itsekiri people of Warri kingdom has sent a distress call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over threats and intimidation orchestrated by Ayiri Emami.
In a statement jointly signed by Engr. Toritseju Dudu and Comr. Lesle Egbe, the group urged President Tinubu to intervene and call Ayiri Emami to order.
They said since the coronation of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, Ayiri Emami, a member of the All Progressive Party (APC) in Delta State has reportedly been instigating unrest and violence against Itsekiri citizens who pledge allegiance to their monarch.
According to them, Ayiri Emami claimed to have the backing of high-ranking officials in government to carry out his disruptive activities with impunity.
The group highlighted several incidents where Ayiri Emami and his associates allegedly obstructed the Olu of Warri’s engagements, including attempts to prevent his access to communities and intimidating those who came out to welcome him.
The group said his actions did not only violate the fundamental rights of Itsekiri citizens but also pose a grave threat to the peace and stability of the region.
The group asserted that the recent incident on March 4, 2024 saw masked assailants allegedly affiliated with Ayiri Emami, terrorizing the Okere Community, firing shots indiscriminately and causing panic among residents.
It also emphasized that such acts of violence have instilled fear among the populace and jeopardized the safety of lives and properties.
The group in its appeal to President Tinubu, underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the protection of citizens’ rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
They implored the President to utilize his authority to rein in Ayiri Emami and his cohorts, warning of dire consequences if urgent action is not taken to address the escalating crisis.
The group reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace in the Warri Kingdom and called upon President Tinubu to uphold his mandate for a better and prosperous Nigeria by swiftly addressing the grievances of the Itsekiri people.