Delta: Obi Okonjo hails Oborevwori for promoting peace, unity in Ogwashi-Uku

The traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, has commended Delta state Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for promoting peace and unity in the kingdom.

Obi Okonjo gave the commendation during the annual Iwaji (New Yam) Festival in Ogwashi-Uku, which also showcased the rich cultural heritage of the people.

The monarch expressed gratitude to the Delta state government, particularly Governor Oborevwori, for his efforts toward fostering peace and ensuring that the kingdom remained united.

“I’m truly grateful to the Delta State Government, particularly the governor, who has worked so hard and tirelessly to bring about peace and to foster unity within the kingdom. “He has worked hard to ensure that the kingdom is not balkanized,” the monarch said.

While calling for continued unity and cooperation among the people, Obi Okonjo, younger brother of the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, assured residents of greater development and a more prosperous future.

He said efforts were being made to channel the kingdom’s resources toward the development and wellbeing of the people.

According to him, “the focus has changed from just selling off our resources, our commonwealth, to utilizing the resources for the benefit of the larger community.”

The monarch also thanked the people of Ogwashi-Uku for their support and commitment to peace, assuring them that he would continue to work for the progress of the kingdom.

“I want to thank the people of Ogwashi-Uku who have stood fast, particularly those who have worked very hard with me to bring about peace and unity, and to tell them that I will not betray their trust.

“I’ll continue to fight for Ogwashi-Uku and continue to make sure that we push those things that will make our kingdom great,” he said.

Speaking after leading a lively procession of community leaders and various groups through the town, Obi Okonjo said the festival provided an opportunity to thank God for a bountiful harvest, protection and the preservation of the kingdom’s cultural heritage.

“What we are having today is our Iwuji Festival, the New Yam Festival, which marks the end of the old season, where we celebrate and give thanks to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest He has given the kingdom.

“We see people from every quarter in Ogwashi-Uku present. It shows that peace and unity have returned to us all,” he said.

In his remarks, the Odogwu of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Gabriel Ohai, commended the monarch for sustaining the cultural heritage of the kingdom and promoting peace among the people.

He said the large turnout at the festival showed that residents across different quarters of the kingdom were embracing the peace initiative.

“It is evident in the crowd. You can see that from every quarter in the kingdom, people came out en masse.

“I am able to find from my own community of Ogbe Odogwu and Azungu, the kind of people who never rejoiced with us before are here.

“People are happy. They are beginning to realise that the Obi means well. And those of us in the traditional institution, we are proud of him,” Ohai said.

The New Yam Festival featured traditional performances and cultural displays, with dignitaries and various cultural groups paying homage to the monarch.

The event also featured prayers for the continued protection, peace, unity and prosperity of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom