Delta Govt Presents Staff of Office to Ogwashi-Uku Monarch, Obi Okonjo

…warns against illegal occupancy of traditional stool in the state.

The new Monarch of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, in Aniocha South Local Government Area, HRM Obi Ifechukwude Chukuka Okonjo II, has been presented with Staff of Office by the Delta State Government.

Presenting the Staff of Office, the State Governor represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr Kingsley Otuaro warned that the Senator Okowa led administration will not tolerate any illegal traditional stool in any part of the state and will also, never dabble into the selection of traditional rulers.

He however assured that government will continue to support all developmental programmes in all Kingdoms in the state.

Speaking, the governor said, “according to the laws of the state, it is statutory for the government to present Staff of Office to traditional rulers after due installation and enthronement by his people. The event is in compliance with the statute, hence it is been appreciated by Ogwashi-Uku people”.

“Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II, was selected by the Ogwashi-Uku King Makers to succeed his father who passed on recently, Let me congratulate the Royal Father for emerging as the new Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom. I am confident that though very big shoes to wear, you will be meticulous in using divine wisdom to handle the affairs of the Kingdom”.

He appealed to the Monarch to continue to unite his people and as well show them the right direction for the progress and development of the entire kingdom.

The governor also congratulated the people for passing through the processes leading to the selection of their King just as he urged the Monarch to see his elevation as a call to contribute his quota to the development of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom through peace building.

Adding, “I also implore the people of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom to give maximum support to His Royal Majesty to enable him create opportunities for socio-economic activities to thrive for the benefit of the kingdom, Delta State and Nigeria at large. The joy of the event today should translate into demonstrating love, understanding, cooperation for both His Majesty and the throne”.

Reassuring of government’s commitment to traditional institutions in the state,  the governor said, “your Royal Majesties here present, it is pertinent to reiterate that government will continue to support the traditional institution through the provision of conducive environment for their leadership to thrive.

“It is my belief that this is one way that will galvanise our traditional rulers to support government policies and programmes. I therefore call on all and sundry to continue to support the efforts of this administration by contributing your quota in the sustenance of peace, unity and harmonious coexistence in the state”.

In his response after the presentation of Staff of Office, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo commended the Delta State Government for the great honour and privilege given to him to serve his people and the ancient kingdom.

“The bold steps taken by His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa in presenting me this Staff of Office today after a careful investigative process, lay to rest who rightfully should occupy the Obiship of our kingdom.

“It is our firm belief that the action taken by your Excellency would keep to promote harmony in our kingdom. It is worthy of note that I passed through all the different stages to receive this staff of office. This includes the endorsement and presentation by the Umu Obi Obahai Royal family”.

The monarch pledged that during his reign, he would work expeditiously to promote unity in the Kingdom while pursuing education, promotions of agriculture, establishment of cottage industries, improvement on the environment, promotion of culture and infrastructure to its logical conclusion.

The chairman of Aniocha South Local Government, Area, Hon Isaac Anwuzia, assured of the support of the Aniocha South traditional rulers council and the people of Aniocha South for the new Monarch.