By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City.
The Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Ayirimi Emami, on Friday said he knows nothing about the invasion of the palace of the Olu of Warri.
Speaking with journalists in Benin City , Edo State, at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Zone ‘5’ Headquarters, following an invitation by the Police over a petition alleging his involvement in “burglary, stealing and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.” the Emami said he was only invited by the police and was not asked to signed any Undertaking or was arrested.
“I was actually invited based on the incident in Warri, it happens to be the invasion of the Olu palace. I told them I know nothing about it because I wasn’t in town when the incident happened.
“There was nothing like Undertaking signed with the police. All they asked me was who invaded the palace? They told me that somethings are missing in the palace and they want to know the whereabouts of those things. I actually told them what I know. ”
Asked what he is doing to ensure those behind the attack were brought to justice, Emami said it is the duty of the police to unravel those who invaded the palace of the Olu of Warri kingdom.
He pledged his support for the kingdom saying, “As a person, Ayiri Emami cannot say he is not in support of the Olu designate. The person in question is my brother and friend, so I have no personal issue when you say Ayiri is not in support.
“One of the issues why I am here is to ensure the laid down procedures in the kingdom were followed, and the police have actually questioned me on what led to the invasion.
“It is not about Ayiri but the people of warri kingdom. If they are happy, I am happy and that’s why I am the custodian. I don’t have issues with anybody, if they feel they are happy, then mine is to keep the heritage. ”
He said though he has not been approached for any peace deal, but he is hopeful that peace returns to the kingdom noting that, “There are talks on going and all I pray for is for peace to come back.”
The Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Ayirimi Emami has been having a running battle in the Itsekiri Kingdom with the ruling house following the passing of Olu Ogiame Ikenwoli and the emergence of an Olu-designate, Prince Utienyinoritsetsola Emiko