The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has declared that no individual, family or group has ownership of land within Ode-Itsekiri community in Warri South Local Government Area.
In a letter dated December 16, 2024 and addressed to the Olare-Aja, Elders’ Council and People of Ode-Itsekiri, the Warri Monarch, proclaimed:
“In my capacity as custodian of the heritage, land, and traditions of the Itsekiri people, I write to address the matter of land ownership and governance in Ode-Itsekiri-the ancestral home of our people. Let it be clearly stated and understood that:
“1. All lands in Ode-Itsekiri are held in trust by the Olu of Warri for the collective benefit of the Itsekiri people. No individual, family, or group has ownership of land within this sacred community.“
2. The Olu of Warri is the ultimate authority to all land matters in Ode-Itsekiri. Any sale, transfer, allocation, or transaction involving land must receive the approval and written consent of the Olu of Warri. Any deed of conveyance, document, or agreement executed without the authority of the Olu of Warri shall be deemed invalid, null, and void.“
3. All legal cases pending in any court between families or individuals concerning land in Ode-Itsekiri must be withdrawn immediately and redirected to the Palace.
“This proclamation serves as both a directive and a reminder that unauthorized land transactions are a violation of our customs and will not be tolerated. Any attempt to act outside this directive, undermines the sanctity of our ancestral home and will be met with the full weight of customary and legal authority.
“As the custodian of all Itsekiri lands, I am committed to ensuring that proper order and respect govern all land matters. All land issues within Ode-Itsekiri Community must first be brought before the Olare-Aja and the Council of Elders for deliberation, with final approval resting solely with the Olu of Warri.
“This proclamation, grounded in both tradition and recognized legal authority, sets a precedent for the protection of our land and heritage, now and for future generations.
“May the unity and prosperity of Warri Kingdom endure forever.”
