By Francis Sadhere
Activities for the coronation of the new Olu of Warri, Prince Ikenwoli Gbesimi Emiko and the burial rites of Late Ogiame Atuwatse II have been released.
According to the Chairman, Warri Council of Chiefs, Chief Yahya Pessu, while addressing a press conference at the Palace of the Olu of Warri today, the coronation of Atuwatse’s successor will take place on December 12, 2015 with a regatta on the Warri River from about 10:am same day.
Chief Pessu added that the burial rites of the Late Olu of Warri will commence on Thursday November 19, 2015 with a commendation service at the Palace.
He said the traditional burial rites will begin the next day Friday November 20, 2015 at Ode Itsekiri, adding that the burial rites will last for 14 days.
He appealed to media organizations to cooperate with the council of elders to ensure a successful burial rites of their late monarch and the coronation of their new monarch.
Chief Pessu, also thanked the media on behalf of the Itsekiri nation, for the wide coverage it gave to the recent announcement of the demise of their great monarch, Ogiame Atuwatse 11, and the continued interest surrounding the burial ceremonies for him, and matters leading to the planned coronation of Prince Ikenwoli Gbesimi Emiko as the 20th Olu of Warri.
Also addressing the press, Chairman, Publicity and Media, Chief Yemi Emiko, assured Deltans and those coming from far and near of their safety, as adequate security measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth burial rites of their late monarch and coronation of the new one.
He said top dignitaries from across the globe are expected to grace the two occasions, adding that they are working seriously to ensure that those invited would be able to attend.
Speaking on the budget of the two programmes, Chief Emiko said the Warri Council of Elders do not have a specific budget for both programmes, noting they are doing things as they come, appealing for more support from individuals.
