Olu of Warri Ogiame Atuwatse III has said polygamy is not an option for him, citing his preference for peace and family life.
The monarch, who married Ivie Atuwatse in 2014, said his decision is guided by how he manages his private life alongside his public role.
The couple has three children. His wife is a lawyer and the daughter of the late businessman Idahosa Okunbo.
Speaking during an interview on BBC Pidgin on Friday, Atuwatse said he prioritises time with his family over expectations linked to his position.
“I live two aspects of life: the public and the private,” he said. “When I am not on the throne, I am not very social. I prefer to stay at home. I have a wife and children, and I spend time managing my family.”
He said he avoids making his life complex and prefers to focus his time and energy on his household.
On the issue of marrying more than one wife, he said, “God did not give me that grace.”
The Olu of Warri said his role as a traditional ruler already places demands on his time, with engagements involving public officials and institutions.
He said spending time with his family helps him maintain balance.
He also addressed reactions to a video that showed him riding an electric scooter while inspecting the Trans-Warri–Ode-Itsekiri Road in Warri, Delta State, in December 2025.
The road was constructed by the Delta State Government. In the video, security personnel and government officials were seen following him.
Atuwatse said he chose to inspect the road using a scooter because it had not been opened to traffic at the time. He said there were no safety concerns as he was the only person on the road.
“I wanted to get a feel of the road,” he said. “There was no traffic, and the road was safe to ride on.”
Responding to comments on social media, he said he found some of the reactions amusing and noted that holding public office does not require a person to be serious at all times. He said using the scooter did not amount to misconduct.
The monarch said the video also led to interest in Warri, with people contacting him about land and housing opportunities.
According to him, some viewed the inspection as a form of promotion for the area.
He added that many of his personal activities are done privately and not in public view.
