Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has hailed the the new Olu of Warri, His Majesty Tsola Emiko Atuwatse III, saying his ascension was a new dawn for Itsekiri people.
The former president, as well as the Governor of Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, charged the new king to effect the process of uniting the Itsekiri nation.
They gave the advice in their goodwill messages during the coronation thanksgiving service at the Warri Palace Chapel.
Also at the event were former governors James Ibori and Emmanuel Uduaghan; Senator James Manager, President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Olu Akpata; and the President of the Nigeria Football Association, Amaju Pinnick, among others.
Obasanjo who spoke shortly after the Holy Communion presided over by a former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, prayed for a peaceful and long reign of the new Olu of Warri.
Obasanjo urged the new monarch to stay very close to God.
He said, ““Itsekiri land has got a new dawn and it will happen and continue to happen. I’m one of the happiest people. God has specially favoured me to see one, two, three Olu of Warri and I don’t want to see four.”
“The position you occupy is given to you by God but with your people surrounding you. You’ll be offending God not to perform the task He has given to you.
“Your title carries a lot of responsibilities. Two things must guide you; one, don’t shun the experience and advice of elders, two, be very close to God. In whatever situation, be close to God.”
Speaking earlier, Okowa said, “It’s time for healing; ensure the entirety of the kingdom comes together. Whether stubborn or not, extend the olive branch to them. You have a lot of work to do in Nigeria, we cannot afford any distraction at home.”
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