.Sets stage for cultural renewal
Ebenezer Adurokiya, Warri
The fifth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, business leaders and Itsekiri people from across Nigeria and the diaspora in a celebration centred on cultural renewal, unity and the monarch’s vision for the wider society.
The anniversary, held on Friday at the Olu’s palace in Ajamimogha, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, attracted Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among other prominent Nigerians.
Held under the theme, *“Global Homecoming: Celebrating Our Cultural Renaissance, Unity and Transformational Progress,”* the event featured homage-paying ceremonies and colourful cultural displays by various Itsekiri groups, as sons and daughters of the Iwere nation returned to Warri for the milestone celebration.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ogiame Atuwatse III said the significance of his reign extended beyond the Itsekiri people, stressing that the traditional institution could serve as a vehicle for promoting Nigeria’s cultural identity and values internationally.
The monarch said his administration had sought to demonstrate excellence through the preservation and presentation of the kingdom’s cultural heritage, noting that such excellence should also influence other aspects of national life.
“What God is doing through this throne, it is beyond Itsekiri, it is for Delta State, it is for Nigeria. And it just goes to say that we are trying to imbibe a spirit of excellence in this our beautiful regal culture,” he said.
According to him, the influence of a strong traditional institution should extend beyond cultural ceremonies into areas such as business and education, particularly in shaping how future generations understand and project their heritage.
The Olu also used the occasion to reflect on his five years on the throne, attributing the progress recorded during the period to divine grace rather than personal achievement.
Looking back on the journey since his coronation, he said he remained grateful to God for using the throne as an instrument for the advancement of the Itsekiri people and beyond.
“I am forever singing in my heart, giving God all the glory, all the praise. I will say it again, everything you see here is not me, it is God that is shining through me, it is God that is expressing himself through me,” the monarch said.
He expressed appreciation to the guests and supporters of the kingdom, saying their prayers and encouragement had strengthened his reign.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori described the Olu as a monarch whose leadership had contributed significantly to the development and visibility of Warri and Delta State.
The governor said the monarch had distinguished himself through intellectual capacity, bridge-building and a sustained commitment to the progress of the people, adding that his leadership had gone beyond the traditional responsibilities of the throne.
“From the splendor of the coronation, it was clear to discerning minds that a new realm of glory under Ogiame Atuwatse III. He is a unique leader with uncommon leadership abilities; he is a cerebral monarch, bridge builder, exemplary leader, a man of grace,” Oborevwori said.
He also recalled several instances in which the Olu had demonstrated support for his administration, including the monarch’s participation in the inspection of the Ode-Itsekiri Road, where he appeared on a scooter.
According to the governor, the action was intended to draw attention to the accessibility of an area previously considered difficult to reach by road.
He said the development was evidence of the monarch’s interest in the progress of the state and described the moment as both memorable and gratifying.
Oborevwori further acknowledged the Olu’s endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and his own second-term bid when the Itsekiri nation hosted him, describing the decision as significant given the traditional institution’s responsibility to remain above partisan politics.
“There was one thing he did when the Itsekiri nation hosted me: a political endorsement of Mr President and myself. It was not an easy thing to take that bold decision because you are father to all. I thank you for that,” the governor said.
He called on traditional rulers to speak out on matters affecting society when necessary, while urging residents of Warri, Uvwie and neighbouring communities to protect the longstanding peaceful relations among the different ethnic groups in the area.
Oborevwori warned against inflammatory statements and other actions capable of undermining peace and stability, stressing that the peaceful coexistence enjoyed by the communities for centuries should be preserved.
The governor also commended the Olu for his visit to the Amakosu of Ogbe-Ijoh.
The celebration drew an array of traditional rulers, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Akeem Abimbola Owoade I; Dein of Agbor, Keagborekuzi I; Ovie of Agbarha-Warri, Igbi II; Amakosu of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri, Monbene III; Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, SAN; Obinof Aboh, Oputa III; Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi, Oba Elegushi Kusenla III; and Olowo of Owo, Oba Ogunoye III.
The Emir of Zazzau, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto, was also present, while the Oni of Ife, Ojaja II, was represented by his wife, Olori Temitope Ogunwusi.
Other dignitaries included Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Arts, Hannatu Musawa; Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, who was represented; Senator Joel Onowakpo-Thomas, representing Delta South; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; commissioners, political leaders and captains of industry.
The gathering ultimately served as both a celebration of Ogiame Atuwatse III’s five years on the throne and a showcase of the enduring cultural heritage of the Iwere people, with the monarch using the occasion to project a broader vision of cultural excellence, unity and national relevance.
For a better society
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