Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged traditional rulers to adopt democratic approach in handling issues in their Kingdoms.
Oborevwori made the call on Friday during the presentation of Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Ogheneochuko Morris Eyekpimi-Egbobonyen, Owhotemu II, Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, said, “though, traditional rulers are selected under a monarchical setting, the present democratic dispensation in our country, should influence your approach to leadership.
“We are in a democratic setting and communities should adopt democratic approach in resolving all intra-community contradictions, including inter-community differences; this has been applicable in the state and it explains the peaceful atmosphere that pervades the State.”
While commending the people of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom for the peaceful transition and harmony on the issue of selecting the Orosuen, the governor urged communities in the state to emulate the smooth transition process, which had occasioned the festivities in the area.
He said, “on behalf of myself, the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate His Royal Majesty, Ogheneochuko Morrris Eyekpimi-Egbonyen, Owhotemu II, Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom.
“I also felicitate with the people and everyone in Okere-Urhobo for the peace and harmony that attended the issue of picking the next Orosuen – a situation that brought everyone present to celebrate this festive occasion with the traditional ruler and his people.
“I urge other communities in the state to emulate the smooth transition, which has taken place here in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom by adopting a give and take approach for peaceful resolution of all issues.
“It is really nice to be in the midst of our people who have happily come to share in the joy of this grand occasion; this joy is palpable given the peaceful process leading to the resolution of the keen contest to fill the vacuum created when the former traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty, Emmanuel Ono Okumagba, joined his ancestors.
“As we savour the joy of this memorable occasion, I sincerely appeal to all sons and daughters of Okere-Urhobo to contribute towards the sustainable development of this kingdom while rallying round the Orosuen to ensure that love, peace and harmony will continue to be the watchword of this community.
“Please refuse to be recruited by criminal elements and mischief makers; I will love to see Okere-Urhobo as a beacon of peace, which continues to allow sustainable peace, love and calmness to permeate co-existence with all and sundry.
“Let me also remind your royal majesty that to whom much is given, much is expected, in the discharge of your duties and responsibilities, you should strive to be transparent, fair and just.
“You are the father of all and as such, you have to be even handed in dealing with all your people.
“Please realise that as the custodian of the tradition of your people, you have to be transparent in everything you do as you adhere to the prescribed rules and norms of Okere-Urhobo.
“Let me, once again, congratulate His Royal Majesty on his successful ascension to the throne of his forefathers. I also felicitate with the people of Okere-Urhobo for the wonderful opportunity of having a recognized traditional ruler to promote their interest and serve as the unifying institution for the kingdom.”
Earlier in an address, the Chairman, Warri South Local Council, Hon. Michael Tidi, said, “this installation is a mark of recognition and acceptance of a new Orosuen by his people,” and thanked Governor Oborevwori for presenting the Staff of Office to the King.
