Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Friday, described the five-year reign of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, as a period of renewed glory, uncommon leadership, peace-building and remarkable progress for the Itsekiri people, Warri and Delta State.
Speaking at the fifth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, Oborevwori commended Atuwatse III for demonstrating uncommon leadership, promoting peace and supporting initiatives aimed at advancing the development of Warri and the state.
He said, “The Olu is a cerebral monarch, a peace-builder and an exemplary leader—a man of grace who leads from the front. He has an undying passion for the progress of not just Warri but the entire Delta State.
“I want to place it on record that the Olu has taken more than a passing interest in my administration. You have shown your love and support for this administration”.
The Governor recalled that when the Itsekiri nation hosted him, the Olu made a bold political endorsement of the President and himself, describing the decision as a courageous one, considering the monarch’s responsibility as a father to all.
According to him, the Olu’s leadership had also been demonstrated through his support for development projects, recalling his participation in the inspection of the construction of the Ode-Itsekiri Road, where he said the monarch was present to receive him even before his arrival
Oborevwori disclosed that the road project, which includes more than 15 bridges, has been completed, adding that the project would soon be commissioned.
He added that the Olu’s efforts in showcasing the completed road had helped to demonstrate the impact of the administration’s infrastructure development agenda.
The Governor recalled seeing a video of the monarch riding a scooter on the completed section of the road, describing it as a remarkable gesture that showcased a project in an area that many had previously thought inaccessible.
He said the Olu’s fifth coronation anniversary was therefore not merely a celebration of a traditional milestone but also a reflection of five years of impactful leadership and a strong demonstration of the monarch’s support for the development efforts of the state government.
The Governor used the occasion to make a passionate appeal to all ethnic nationalities in Warri to preserve the peace and unity that had characterised their coexistence over the years.
He said the different ethnic groups had peacefully coexisted for centuries, stressing that there was no reason why such harmony should not continue.
He urged all and sundry to shun inflammatory statements and divisive tendencies capable of threatening the peace and stability of Warri and Delta State.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu; Senator Joel-Onowakpo; the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, representative of the Minister of Aviation; members of the Delta State Executive Council; service commanders; royal fathers from across the country; and other distinguished guests.
In his brief remarks, christened “Speech from the throne”, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, attributed the achievements of his five-year reign to God, saying everything witnessed through the throne was a manifestation of divine grace.
He said the impact of the throne transcended the Itsekiri nation, and expressed his commitment to promoting excellence in Nigeria’s traditional institution and cultural heritage.
The Olu thanked Governors Oborevwori and Sanwo-Olu, other government officials, traditional rulers, groups and communities for honouring his anniversary and for their support and prayers.
