By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
Warri exploded in colour and culture on Thursday as Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, hailed the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, as a monarch who has turned his throne into a symbol of peace, unity and global recognition.
Speaking through the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, at the 4th Coronation Anniversary held at the royal palace, Oborevwori declared that Atuwatse III’s reign has been nothing short of transformational.
“You have become a beacon of peace and purposeful leadership,” the governor said. “Warri Kingdom under you is not only united but now firmly on the global map for investment and development.”
He said the Olu’s leadership style matches his MORE Agenda, and promised that government would continue backing traditional rulers to strengthen peace and growth across the state.
Monarch Preaches Unity, Warns Against “Pull-Him-Down” Syndrome
In a heartfelt message, Ogiame Atuwatse III called on his people to bury divisions and rally behind one another if true progress must be achieved.
“As a father, I urge you all—be kind, supportive and your brother’s keeper,” he told his subjects.
The revered king however warned that peace must be built on honesty and repentance, saying:
“As much as we all desire unity, it must stand on the right foundation. Without repentance, there can be no true reconciliation.”
The anniversary ceremony turned Warri into a carnival of tradition. Communities from across Iwere land thronged the palace, paying homage to their king amid music, dance, and colourful displays.
Dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria joined in the celebrations, underscoring once again the growing influence of Warri Kingdom under Atuwatse III’s reign.