Olu of Warri Slams Foreign Exploitation Of Mangroves

The Olú of Warri, His Majesty Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, has strongly condemned the exploitation of the Niger Delta’s mangroves by foreign interests, describing it as “a new form of colonialism”. This condemnation was made at an art exhibition in Lagos, titled “The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, the Mangroves and Art,” which featured works by Dr. John Ed Debebs.

The Olú of Warri warned that foreign entities are seeking to profit from the region’s natural resources without regard for the people or the environment. He emphasized that the exploitation of the mangroves could have devastating consequences for the environment and the people who depend on them.

“This is a new form of colonialism. We will not allow our lands to be taken away from us by external forces. We will not stand idly by while our heritage is exploited for the benefit of others,” he said.

The monarch called for urgent action to protect the region’s natural resources and ensure that any economic benefits derived from them serve the local communities first. He also emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of the region’s resources.

“For centuries, the people of the Niger Delta have lived with and through the mangroves. These lands, stretching from the Bight of Bonny to the Bight of Benin, are more than just ecosystems; they are the lungs of our heritage,” he added.

The exhibition, which runs until March 18, 2025, aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the mangroves and the need for sustainable management of the region’s natural resources.