The Amanyanabo of Okochiri, His Royal Majesty King Ateke Tom, has refuted recent claims suggesting a confrontation between him and the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, during his birthday celebration in Okochiri.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday by his Media Assistant, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, King Ateke described the allegations as completely unfounded, mischievous, and aimed at sowing unnecessary discord in the Niger Delta region.
According to the statement, the birthday celebration took place peacefully and in an atmosphere of goodwill, attracting dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers from across the Niger Delta and beyond.
“There was no moment of confrontation, disagreement, or public embarrassment between His Majesty and Dr. Otuaro,” the statement clarified. “The rumor that the king turned down monetary gifts from the amnesty administrator and accused him of insincerity is a fabricated lie and an insult to the intelligence of all those who were in attendance.”
The monarch stressed that he remains committed to promoting peace and regional development and would not be part of any act that disrupts harmony or discredits leaders working toward the same goals.
King Ateke further warned media outlets and commentators against spreading sensational and unverified stories that can incite division or undermine peace-building efforts in the region. He urged the public to disregard the misleading report and focus instead on collective efforts to advance the Niger Delta.
