The newly crowned Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari, Da-Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, has made a resounding declaration, warning oil bunkers, kidnappers, drug dealers, and sea pirates to vacate the kingdom or face the consequences. His speech, delivered to an ecstatic crowd of Elem Kalabari residents on New Year’s Day 2025, promises a new era of order and development in the region, as the king commits to tackling criminality head-on.
In a decisive address after participating in the Ekine Sekiapu traditional rites, King Dokubo-Asari vowed to cleanse the waters and lands of Elem Kalabari of all illegal activities that have long posed a threat to the community’s well-being. His warning comes amidst widespread concerns over the increasing wave of criminality that has affected the livelihood of residents and the environmental health of the region.
“No More Tolerance for Criminals”
King Dokubo-Asari’s speech was direct and uncompromising. In no uncertain terms, he called out the individuals responsible for environmental pollution and the destabilization of the local economy.
“Enough is enough,” he declared, addressing those involved in illegal oil bunkering that has long plagued the Niger Delta region. “If you are engaged in oil theft and illegal bunkering, whether you are a relative, friend, or someone highly placed in society, I am sending a message: pack up and leave our land now. You are no longer welcome. We will no longer tolerate these activities that destroy our environment, harm our fishermen, and poison our waters.”
The monarch explained that the environmental devastation caused by illegal oil extraction has severely impacted the traditional livelihood of many Elem Kalabari citizens, particularly fishermen who depend on the pristine waters for their trade. By resorting to oil theft and illegal refining, criminals are not only depleting national resources but also polluting the natural environment that sustains the local community.
“The fish are dying, the water is polluted, and the land is being destroyed. These actions are not just illegal; they are an assault on our way of life,” he said passionately.
Addressing Kidnappers and Sea Pirates
The king did not spare other criminal elements that have contributed to insecurity in the region, particularly kidnappers and sea pirates who have been wreaking havoc on the waterways. He outlined the kingdom’s new stance on security, emphasizing that the local authorities would no longer turn a blind eye to such activities.
“Kidnappers and sea pirates terrorizing our people are a cancer we can no longer afford to harbor,” King Dokubo-Asari proclaimed. “We will patrol the waters and ensure that our citizens can move freely without fear. Any pirate or kidnapper found on our waters will be arrested, dealt with, and handed over to the appropriate authorities.”
The escalating security crisis in the Niger Delta, particularly the rise in abductions for ransom and attacks on commercial vessels, has caused widespread anxiety among residents and businesses. The king’s promise to restore peace and order is seen as a critical step toward reclaiming control of the region’s economic and social stability.
A Vision for Development
While the monarch’s stance on crime and criminality dominated the New Year’s address, he also highlighted his vision for the future of Elem Kalabari. King Dokubo-Asari outlined ambitious plans to transform the kingdom, focusing on infrastructure, education, and community empowerment.
“Starting from today, we will begin massive dredging and reclamation projects in Elem Kalabari. This is just the beginning of what will be a monumental transformation,” he told the crowd. “I have already mobilized 150 workers to clear the bush and prepare for the dredging and sand filling projects. In two months, you won’t recognize this place. Our kingdom will be a new city, with clean roads, modern facilities, and opportunities for our youth.”
The king also addressed the plight of the kingdom’s women and children, announcing that scholarships would be provided to ensure that children in the region receive quality education. He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among the people, calling on everyone to join hands for the betterment of the kingdom.
“Now is the time for us to rise together,” he said. “No more relying on handouts. No more depending on crumbs from the table. What is rightfully ours, we will take. Our women will no longer beg for assistance, and our children will have the education they deserve. We will build a prosperous future for our people.”
A Royal Appeal for Unity
In his address, the monarch made a passionate appeal for unity and collective effort. He urged the residents to support the ongoing projects and work together for the success of the kingdom.
“Only through unity can we achieve the great things that lie ahead,” King Dokubo-Asari said. “There is no place for division or discord in Elem Kalabari. We must stand together, support each other, and put the interest of our kingdom first. What we do today will shape the future of our children and generations to come.”
The monarch’s ambitious vision for development, coupled with his strong stance on tackling criminality, has earned him both admiration and cautious optimism among the people. Many see him as a figure who will lead the kingdom into a new chapter of growth and prosperity, free from the stranglehold of criminal elements and environmental degradation.
Regional Impact and Reactions
The king’s fiery declaration has reverberated beyond the shores of Elem Kalabari, with reactions pouring in from neighboring communities and stakeholders in the Niger Delta region. Many have lauded his leadership and the bold steps he is taking to address long-standing issues affecting the region.
However, some are cautious about the potential pushback from powerful individuals involved in illicit activities, particularly the oil bunkering cartels. While the king’s resolve is undisputed, the challenges of confronting entrenched criminal networks in the Niger Delta are not to be underestimated.
“King Dokubo-Asari’s stance is a breath of fresh air,” said a local environmental activist, Olamide Eze. “For years, we have watched our waters and lands be destroyed. But it’s important that the authorities back up his words with action. The criminal cartels are deeply entrenched, and it will take more than just words to root them out.”
