Buckingham Palace Group Condemns False Allegations Against Olu of Warri and PINL

The Buckingham Palace Group, a prominent advocate for peace, unity, and development in the Niger Delta, has condemned in strong terms what it described as “baseless and inflammatory allegations” made against Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atuwatsé III CFR and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL).

In a statement jointly signed by Hon. Festus Ederekumor, Vice President, and Hon. Kenny Amgbare, Public Relations Officer of the group, the organization expressed deep concern over the false narratives being spread by a self-styled group known as the Aggrieved Freedom Fighters. The Buckingham Palace Group described the allegations as a coordinated and malicious campaign aimed at inciting ethnic tension, discrediting respected institutions, and disrupting peace and development in the Niger Delta

1. Marginalization of Host Community Youths and Stakeholders:

The group stated that PINL operates a well-documented community engagement model that prioritizes inclusiveness, equity, and youth empowerment. This includes employment opportunities for local youths, regular stakeholder meetings, and capacity-building programs.

2. Involvement in Bunkering Activities:

The group refuted allegations linking PINL to illegal oil activities, describing them as “false, defamatory, and without a shred of evidence.” It emphasized that PINL is a licensed surveillance and pipeline protection company that works in close partnership with security agencies and regulatory authorities to combat oil theft.

3. Sponsorship of Conflicts in the Niger Delta:

Buckingham Palace Group dismissed this claim as “irresponsible and dangerous,” asserting that PINL has a proven track record in peace-building and conflict resolution. The company, it stated, has often played the role of a neutral mediator in resolving disputes.

4. Forcible Renaming of Ijaw Communities:

Describing this claim as “ethnically provocative,” the group clarified that neither PINL nor the Olu of Warri has ever renamed any Ijaw community. It insisted the allegation is politically motivated and intended to spark unnecessary tension between ethnic groups.

5. Territorial Claims Over Ijaw Land:

The group clarified that PINL is a private entity with no authority or interest in traditional boundary matters. It emphasized that issues of territorial claims are strictly within the jurisdiction of the government and legal institutions, not private companies.

Call for Unity and Vigilance

The Buckingham Palace Group urged the public to ignore the petition by the Aggrieved Freedom Fighters, which it described as “self-serving and divisive.” It warned against falling for propaganda that seeks to undermine the unity of the Niger Delta region for personal or political gain.

The group also reaffirmed its unwavering support for PINL and His Majesty Ògíamẹ̀ Atuwatsé III CFR, commending their roles in promoting peace, good governance, and sustainable development.

“We call on all stakeholders, traditional institutions, youth groups, civil society organizations, and community leaders, to remain vigilant, united, and reject any attempts to sow division through misinformation and ethnic propaganda,” the statement concluded.