The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has stated that polygamy is not a path he intends to take, explaining that he values peace of mind and stability in his family life.

The monarch, who got married to Ivie Atuwatse in 2014, said his approach to marriage is shaped by how he balances his responsibilities as a traditional ruler with his personal life.

The couple have three children. His wife is a lawyer and daughter of the late businessman, Idahosa Okunbo.

During an interview with BBC Pidgin on Friday, Atuwatse explained that he deliberately gives priority to his family rather than social expectations tied 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 added that he avoids unnecessary complications in his life and chooses to invest his time and energy in his home.

On the subject of taking more than one wife, he said, “God did not give me that grace.”

The traditional ruler also noted that his role already demands significant time through meetings and engagements with public officials and institutions, making family time even more important for personal balance.

He further reacted to the viral 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. The footage showed security operatives and government officials accompanying him during the inspection.

Explaining his decision, Atuwatse said he opted for a scooter because the road had not yet been opened to the public and was free of vehicles.

“I wanted to get a feel of the road. There was no traffic, and the road was safe to ride on,” he said.

He described many of the social media reactions as amusing and stressed that occupying a public position does not mean one must appear serious at all times. He said riding the scooter did not amount to any form of misconduct.

According to him, the video also sparked renewed interest in Warri, with several people reaching out to make enquiries about land and housing opportunities in the area.

He added that many of his personal activities are usually carried out privately and away from public attention.