The fifth coronation anniversary of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, was marked by a gathering of distinguished leaders, including Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa. The event, held on Friday, served as a testament to the Olu’s leadership, which Governor Oborevwori described as a period of renewed glory, uncommon leadership, peace-building, and remarkable progress for the Itsekiri people, Warri, and Delta State as a whole.
In his address, Governor Oborevwori praised Olu Atuwatse III for his exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to peace, and steadfast support for initiatives aimed at advancing the development of Warri and the state. He emphasized the monarch’s role as a peace-builder and a leader of grace, stating:
“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.”
The Governor also highlighted the Olu’s bold political endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and himself during the Itsekiri nation’s hosting of the governor. He described the monarch’s decision as courageous, particularly given the Olu’s responsibility as a father to all.
Governor Oborevwori further commended the Olu’s direct involvement in development projects, recalling his presence at the inspection of the Ode-Itsekiri Road construction. He noted that the monarch arrived before the governor to receive him, demonstrating his deep commitment to the project. The road, which includes more than 15 bridges, has since been completed and is set to be commissioned soon. The Governor praised the Olu’s efforts in showcasing the completed road, stating:
“The Olu’s efforts in showcasing the completed road helped to demonstrate the impact of the administration’s infrastructure development agenda.”
He also referenced a viral video of the Olu riding a scooter on the newly completed section of the road, calling it a remarkable gesture that highlighted the project’s accessibility in an area previously deemed difficult to reach.
The Governor framed the Olu’s fifth coronation anniversary not merely as a celebration of a traditional milestone but as a reflection of five years of impactful leadership and a strong demonstration of the monarch’s support for the state government’s development efforts. He concluded his remarks with a passionate appeal to all ethnic nationalities in Warri to preserve the peace and unity that have characterized their coexistence for centuries.
“The different ethnic groups have peacefully coexisted for centuries, and there is no reason why such harmony should not continue. I urge all and sundry to shun inflammatory statements and divisive tendencies capable of threatening the peace and stability of Warri and Delta State.”
Dignitaries and Traditional Leaders Gather to Honor the Olu of Warri
The event was attended by a distinguished assembly of leaders, including:
- Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu;
- Senator Joel-Onowakpo;
- Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa;
- 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;
- Other distinguished guests.
In his brief remarks, titled “Speech from the Throne”, Olu Atuwatse III attributed the achievements of his five-year reign to divine grace, stating that everything witnessed through the throne was a manifestation of God’s favor. He emphasized that the impact of his reign had transcended the Itsekiri nation, expressing his commitment to promoting excellence within Nigeria’s traditional institutions and cultural heritage.
The Olu extended his gratitude to Governors Oborevwori and Sanwo-Olu, as well as other government officials, traditional rulers, groups, and communities for honoring his anniversary and for their unwavering support and prayers.
