Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday, paid homage to Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, advising him to promote peace in his reign so as to achieve greater progress in Itsekiri nation.
He gave the prayers through his Deputy, Dr. Edward Onoja (CIK), who led an entourage on a courtesy visit to the Palace of the 21st Olu of Warri, HRM, King Tsola Emiko, Ogiame Atuwatse III.
Onoja, presenting the Governor’s message to the King, said the visit was to formally convey the felicitations of the entire people of Kogi State with the Paramount Ruler on his peaceful ascension to the throne of his forebears on 21 August, 2021.
He expressed pride in the royal carriage and rare courage rooted in wisdom as shown by the King on his coronation, describing him as, “a young man rising to the challenges of leadership with dignity and humility.”
According to him, “More inspiring yet was the fact that one of Your Royal Majesty’s first offices upon coronation was to deploy your spiritual, cultural, political, and traditional authority as the 21st Olu of Warri to reverse ancient curses and release forgiveness and blessedness on the nation and people of Nigeria.
“This singular act has cemented your credentials as a King who delights in love and light,” he said.
Governor Bello said the young King bubbles in youthful age and freshness of ideas, praying God grants him the wisdom, health, insights, and acuity for a successful reign on the revered throne of his ancestors which he prayed, will attract increased development to his people, rubbing off on Kogi State, and the entire nation.
Welcoming the guests, the Paramount Ruler recalled the historical connection between the Itsekiri and Igala Nations, saying there was a desperate need to reengineer a physical interaction between the Niger region and Kogi State through the improvement of Trade and Commerce.
Whilst disclosing that he remains a friend of the Confluence State by stroke of friendship, he lauded Governor Bello for his ideals that prioritize the people’s welfare and wellbeing over other obligations, announcing that doors to the Palace remain open to the entire people of Kogi State as they remain friends of the Itsekiri Kingdom.
