JUST IN: Odidi Writes DSS, Police to Arrest Okirikpa Over Alleged Misinformation, Impersonation

By Monday Peters, Abuja

The leadership of Odidi Community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force to arrest Prince Preye Okirikpa over allegations of misinformation, blackmail, impersonation and actions allegedly capable of disrupting the peace and stability of the community.

The statement was signed on behalf of the community by its Secretary, Chief Bene Youkore Mamamu, the leadership alleged that Okirikpa had been circulating false information against the DSS and other security agencies in a bid to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension within the community.

The community maintained that the DSS has remained neutral in the ongoing leadership dispute in Odidi and has not taken sides with any faction. According to the statement, the agency has limited its role in maintaining peace, law and order in the interest of all parties.

The statement further explained that during the recent Heritage Energy oil spill protest, the DSS only intervened to prevent a breakdown of law and order and ensure that the protest remained peaceful. It described the alleged attempts to blackmail the security agency as unlawful, irresponsible and capable of undermining the efforts of security personnel carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

The community also alleged that Prince Okirikpa diverted relief materials reportedly donated for victims affected by the Heritage Energy oil spill, claiming that several intended beneficiaries were denied access to the items.

It further stated that the administration previously headed by Okirikpa had been dissolved following the expiration of its tenure by the Executive Chairman of Warri South West Local Government Area. According to the statement, the dissolution was witnessed by representatives of the DSS, the Burutu Area Commander and other relevant stakeholders.

The leadership also called on Heritage Energy and other companies operating within the Odidi environment, as well as government agencies, to distance themselves from Okirikpa, alleging that he is under investigation for financial misconduct.

According to the statement, Prince Okirikpa is being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the alleged misappropriation of community funds. It further claimed that there is a subsisting court order directing him to appear before the EFCC, alleging that he has failed to comply and that a ₦10 million fine imposed by the court remains unpaid.

The community warned that the continued circulation of what it described as false information and alleged blackmail against the DSS and other security agencies could escalate tensions and threaten public peace if left unchecked.

It therefore appealed to the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to immediately arrest Prince Okirikpa to prevent what it described as further acts of misinformation, impersonation and blackmail capable of causing a breakdown of law and order in the Odidi Community.