Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has said the era when ethnic nationalities in three Warri councils clashed over differences is over, stressing that he would do everything to promote peace and inter ethnic harmony in Delta State.
The Olu spoke during the third edition of Aghofe Ghigho cultural ceremony to usher in Omadino community as new palace keepers. Every three months, Itsekiri communities rotate duties in the palace. Inorin community handed over to Omadino.
The monarch said: “We will enjoy peace in Warri. Never again will we clash over our differences. We will always come together, we will discuss, we will agree and we will be the better for it.”
The ceremony, which was witnessed by eminent personalities from across the country in attendance, including former minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung; Social Democratic Party, (SDP) governorship aspirant, Kenneth Gbagi; founder of Word of Life Bible Church, Pa Ayo Oritsejafor; Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) governorship aspirant, Sheriff Oborevwori; traditional rulers, among others, showcased cultural heritage by many ethnic groups in country.
The Olu, who used the occasion to also unveil a health insurance scheme for Iwereland, his domain, said the rich cultural display was attestation of the tourism potential of Warri Kingdom.
He intervened in the leadership crisis in Omadino community, saying: “I want to speak to Omadino community. First of all, thank you for coming out in large numbers. I want to use this as an opportunity to preach peace in your community.
“I want to remind you that you have a unique opportunity to start again in your community. Many people may feel a sense of entitlement, a sense of frustration, a sense of ‘it’s my turn,’ but I appeal to all of you to put away those sentiments. Omadino is too important a community in Warri Kingdom for there to be a division and fighting.”
THEGUARDIAN
