Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, for promoting peace, unity and development in Warri Kingdom, describing the monarch’s five-year reign as a period of renewed glory and remarkable progress.
Oborevwori stated this on Friday at the fifth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, where he praised Atuwatse III for demonstrating uncommon leadership and supporting initiatives aimed at advancing the development of Warri and Delta State.
The governor described the monarch as “a cerebral monarch, a peace-builder and an exemplary leader” with an “undying passion” for the progress of Warri and the entire 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,” Oborevwori said.
He recalled that when the Itsekiri nation hosted him, the Olu made a bold political endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and himself, describing the decision as courageous considering the monarch’s responsibility as a father to all.
The governor also highlighted the Olu’s support for infrastructure development, recalling his participation in the inspection of the Ode-Itsekiri Road project.
According to Oborevwori, the road, which includes more than 15 bridges, has been completed and will soon be commissioned.
He said the monarch’s efforts in showcasing the completed road had helped to demonstrate the impact of his administration’s infrastructure development agenda.
The governor recalled seeing a video of Atuwatse III riding a scooter on the completed section of the road, describing the gesture as remarkable because it showcased the transformation of an area that had previously been considered difficult to access.
Oborevwori said the fifth coronation anniversary was therefore not merely a celebration of a traditional milestone but an opportunity to reflect on five years of impactful leadership and the monarch’s contributions to peace and development.
He appealed to all ethnic nationalities in Warri to preserve the peace and unity that had characterised their coexistence over the years.
According to him, the different ethnic groups have lived together peacefully for centuries, stressing that there was no reason such harmony should not continue.
He urged residents 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; a 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 remarks, titled “Speech from the Throne,” the Olu of Warri attributed the achievements recorded during his five-year reign to God, saying everything witnessed through the throne was a manifestation of divine grace.
Atuwatse III said the impact of his reign had transcended the Itsekiri nation, expressing his commitment to promoting excellence in Nigeria’s traditional institution and preserving the country’s cultural heritage.
The monarch thanked Governors Oborevwori and Sanwo-Olu, government officials, traditional rulers, groups and communities for honouring his fifth coronation anniversary and for their support and prayers.
