Ogheneruona Tejiri, Olomu, Delta State

THE Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM. Ogiame Atuwatse III said that the departed Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, HRM.(Dr) R.L. Ogbon, Ogoni-Oghoro I JP OON, world oldest Monarch was a king with a difference.

HRM Atuwatse III spoke during a condolence visit to the Royal Family and the People of Olomu Kingdom at the Palace of the Ohworode in Ogoni-Olomu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Olu of Warri official condolence message was signed by the Director, Palace Administration of Warri Kingdom, Chief Clement A. Maleghemi.

According to the Olu of Warri, “His Royal Majesty Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom was a king with a difference, full of humility, peacemaker, a bridge builder and an embodiment of love.

“We are consoled by the fact that His Royal Majesty Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom lived a fulfilled life and his reign speaks volume whose legacies the Olomu Kingdom should endeavour to sustain and build upon. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Adieu Your Majesty.”

Ogiame condolence message was read by Chief Solomon Areyenka before the people of Olomu Kingdom.

The Uwangue of Warri Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Awala, Chief Patrick Yalaju JP and Chief Solomon Areyenka represented the Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM. Ogiame Atuwatse III during the condolence visit to Olomu Kingdom.

In a response on behalf of the people of Olomu Kingdom, the Otota of Olomu Kingdom, Olorogun Macaulay Ovbagbedia said there has been a cordial relationship between Olomu and Warri Kingdoms over the years. He recalled the role the former Olu of Warri played for Sen. Emmanuel Edesiri Aguariavwodo to be a senator.

While pointing out that he (Otota) was a friend to the Awanis of Warri Kingdom, Ovbagbedia disclosed that he married one of the daughters of the late Justice Ajuya of Warri Kingdom.

Accordng to Olorogun Ovbagbedia, “when Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom celebrated his 100years birthday, the Olu of Warri Kingdom was here and the relationship has continued like that.”

Olorogun Ovbagbedia said the departure of the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom is a celebration because he lived a fulfilled life, adding, “we are happy that the relationship will continue”.

The Otota on behalf of the children, as well as the Olomu Traditional Council of Chiefs sent greetings to the Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM. Ogiame Atuwatse III and the delegation he sent to them.

The eldest son of the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, Prince Godwin Ogbon expressed his appreciation to the Olu of Warri Kingdom for commiserating with them and the entire Olomu Kingdom over the departure of his father and monarch of Olomu Kingdom.

Accordng to Prince Ogbon, “the relationship has been long standing. Not just between the two Kingdoms but between the individuals in the Kingdom.”

Prince Ogbon also disclosed that he is married to a Warri Kingdom woman, adding, “as a matter of fact, my late Uncle in-law was the Uwangue of Warri Kingdom, Chief Utuedor. So, it’s closed relationship and my nephew is also following my footsteps. He went back to Yonwuren family to marry. So, we really appreciate you for coming. Please, convey our gratitude to His Majesty.”

In the same vein, a group under the auspices, Real Distinguished Nigerians, RDN led by HRM Okobaro of Ughievwhen Kingdom and Prof. W.S. Ibodje also paid a condolence visit to the children, people and Traditional Council of Chiefs of Olomu Kingdom.

The Okobaro in a remark said the departed Olomu monarch ranks very tall and bold. He stressed, “He is still standing tall.”

The monarch who said he was proud of Olomu people and also thanked them for the orderly manner they have conducted themselves, adding, “this is excellent”.

He added that the departed Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom was “somebody with high integrity.”