*As Orusuen Of Okere-Urhobo Warri Gets Staff Of Office
*Orodje Of Okpe, Ovie Of Idjerhe, Manager, Amori, Ominimini, Others In Attendance
By Onome Oghenetega
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has warned that the state government will not tolerate illegal creation and selection of traditional stools across the state.
He, however, said the Delta Government will continue to remained neutral in the selection of traditional rulers in the various kingdoms in the state.
The governor gave the warning on Tuesday while presenting Staff of Office to HRM Emmanuel Okumagba, Okumagba ll, the Orusuen (king) of Okere-Urhobo kingdom in Warri South Local Government Area of the state.
Okowa denied his administration’s alleged involvement in the selection of HRM Okumagba ll, stating that the monarch’s approval by the State Executive Council followed the recommendation of the kingmakers and the people of the kingdom.
Represented by his deputy, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, the governor charged the people of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom to support the new monarch.
He noted that the state government will continue to ensure that kingdoms followed relevant provisions of the law in picking a king.
“It is statutory for the State Government to present staff of office to a traditional ruler after due installation and enthronement by his people.
“This event is in compliance with the statute. This should be appreciated by the chiefs, elders, and good people of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom.
“Every traditional ruler must be recognized and formally endorsed by the State Government like we are witnessing.
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“I heartily felicitate with the people of Okere Kingdom for passing through all the hurdles in the selection of their king.
“What the Government and indeed all well-meaning Deltans expect from the people of Okere Kingdom at this time, is to rally round His Royal Majesty to ease the task of discharging his duties”, Okowa stated.
The governor also charged the new monarch to remain father to all and imbibe the virtues of dialogue in decision makings in the interest of peace.
According to him, “You’re the father of all your subjects. As the custodian of the tradition of your people, it is important that you do not in words or action, give any cause for your subjects to doubt your ability to uphold the sanctity of the custom of your people.
“I sincerely implore you to imbibe the Democratic virtues of dialogue and consultation to achieve peace under your reign.”
The colourful ceremony which displayed the rich culture of the Urhobo people was attended by the Orodje of Okpe, Orhue 1; Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM Udurhie 1; Ovie of Uvwie; Pere of Ogulagha Kingdom, Ovie of Agbarha Warri and Ovie of Agbarho-Otor.
Also in attendance are; Senator James Manager (Delta South), Senator Ighoyota Amori, Chief Ominimini Obiuwevbi, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode, Warri South council chairman, Dr. Micheal Tidi, Chief Denis Omovie and among others.
