The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday, presented Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Chukunomso Oraeze Justin Nwoko, the Obi of Udumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North Local Government Area of the Delta State.
The governor, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, described the traditional institution as a priceless legacy in any African society for which there is no credible substitute, and as a rallying point for the people.
Oborevwori said, “We are here today to be part of this wonderful and joyous occasion of the presentation of Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Chukwunomso Oraeze Justin Nwoko, the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko.
“It is obvious that this is particularly a special occasion in this kingdom, given the presence of notable community leaders, residents and well wishers of this community who have all assembled to savour the infectious joy and ecstatic moments of this historic event.
“On behalf of myself, the government and good people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate His Royal Majesty for the smooth ascension to the royal stool of his ancestors.
“Please, be patient as the welfare of rural areas is dear to the heart of this administration.
“This kingdom will not be left out in the sustainable development plans of the state government because, the traditional institution remains a priceless legacy in any African society for which there is yet no credible substitute, as a rallying point for the people.
“This administration will continue to see the traditional institution as an indispensable partner in the socio-economic and cultural development of the State.
‘May l also use this opportunity to reassure our royal fathers that this administration will continue to hold traditional rulers in high esteem.
“The ceremony of this day is the high point of various traditional rites and other processes, which are necessary for the ascension to the throne of the Obi of this kingdom.
“The peace and unity that attended these initial steps attest to the confidence that the people and residents of this kingdom repose in this traditional institution and His Royal Majesty.”
He admonished traditional rulers to be transparent and imbibe the culture dialogue at all segments of their kingdoms for peace to reign.
“Let me use this occasion to exhort Your Royal Majesty to encourage free flow of communication, dialogue and consultations with all segments of your kingdom.
“I also urge you to be transparent while upholding at all times, the virtues of justice, fair play and equity in all your dealings with your subjects.
“Ensure that in everything you do and in every decision you take, the interest of your people and above all, the fear of God is placed above all other considerations.
“That way, you will maintain and improve on the high sanctity of your exalted office by leading your people to greater prosperity, unity and cohesion.
“You should also ensure that peace reigns supreme in your kingdom, any threat to peace in this kingdom should be reported to security agencies and the local government council to ensure that the peace in this kingdom is not ruptured.
“I urge you to encourage youths in this kingdom to get involved in productive and sustainable development activities while according all constituted authorities, the respect they truly deserve.
“My dear people and residents of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom, I appeal to you to bestow on His Royal Majesty, all the honour he truly deserve, you should all assist him to make his tasks easier; consult the palace in all matters concerning this kingdom as the respect you accord your ruler will surely be reciprocated by all and sundry.”
The governor thanked the people for supporting his administration’s MORE Agenda.
Chairman, Aniocha North Local Government Council, Hon. Bazim Chinye said, “the initial traditional installation of HRM Obi Chukwunonso Nwoko coupled with the formal recognition and presentation of Staff of Office has placed in the hand of the King sufficient tool as one central authority and control to galvanize the various components of the town.”
Also, the President-General, idumuje-Ugboko Development Union, Dr Christian Chiazor, in an address said, “the system of transfer of kingship in idumuje-Ugboko since inception, is via the principle of primogeniture, this provides that when a king passes on, the first son automatically becomes the next King.
“It is this age-long practice which conferred legitimacy to the crowning of Obi Chukwunonso Nwoko when his father, Obi Albert Nwoko passed on in 2017.”
He thanked Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for presenting the Staff of Office to their King and for “the marvelous work of provision of infrastructures all over Delta State, Aniocha North inclusive; one does not need to look far to feel and see the impact of government developmental activities.”
Some of those who attended the ceremony include former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Benjamin Elue, Chairman, Rainoil, Dr Gabriel Ogbechie, renowned politician, Chief Nkem Okwuofu, Commissioner for Special Duties, Government House, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza and his Science and Technology counterpart, Mr Odinigwe Daniel Odigie, member representing Ndokwa West at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Charles Emetulu, Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Christopher Osakwe, members of the Delta State House of Assembly, among others.
