Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged traditional rulers to only reward individuals with proven integrity.
The governor made the call on Thursday at the presentation of Staff of Office to Obi Augustine Nzemeke Okolie III the Obi of Egbudu Akah in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Represented by his Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, Governor Oborevwori said, “it is important that traditional rulers recognize and reward individuals with proven integrity, especially when it comes to the award of chieftaincy titles.
“I am delighted to join in the joy of this remarkable occasion, the formal presentation of the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Augustine Nzemeke Ezeagwuna Okolie III, Obi of Egbudu Akah. The presence of distinguished traditional and community leaders, esteemed government officials and friends and well-wishers from near and far underscores the significance, honour and grandeur of this momentous event
” I believe the succession process was conducted with minimal discord, reflecting the peace, love and harmony for which the Egbudu Akah community is renowned
“Your Royal Highness, Obi Augustine Nzemeke Ezeagwuna Okolie III, you are inheriting the legendary peace, harmony and development that are among the enduring legacies of your predecessor, Obi Agbogidi Olo-Ome Okolie I, who joined his ancestors after decades of impactful leadership
“The progress and development this community enjoyed during his reign stem from his commitment to peaceful and harmonious coexistence, not only within Egbudu Akah but across communities in the former Aniocha Local Government Area. I warmly congratulate the people of Egbudu Akah for these commendable achievements, which make this community one of the most welcoming places to live and invest.
”I urge the people and His Royal Majesty to embrace the challenge of not only maintaining but elevating the high standards and noble ideals passed down by your ancestors.
“I sincerely hope the community will rise to the occasion, making the reign of Obi Augustine Nzemeke Ezeagwuna Okolie III one of the most successful in the history of leadership, not just in Egbudu Akah or Delta State but across the nation.
“I encourage you, in keeping with your warm and hospitable traditions, to offer the Obi your full and unwavering support and loyalty to enable him to provide focused, selfless leadership.”
Governor Oborevwori implored Obi Okolie III, to diligently promote the welfare, peace and development of his Kingdom through his words and and actions.
While emphasizing the importance dialogue in the administration of his subject, the governor said, “As a traditional ruler under a democratic administration, I emphasize the importance of pursuing dialogue and consensus in your interactions with your subjects and in the community’s relationships with all levels of government.
“I extend this appeal to all traditional rulers in the State to adopt dialogue and transparent honesty in their engagements.
” I trust that His Royal Majesty will uphold the sanctity of his esteemed office, guiding his people toward greater prosperity while championing justice, fairness and equity as the custodian of your people’s traditions.
” I am inspired by the longstanding development consciousness of the Egbudu Akah people, evident in their numerous self-help projects.
“I encourage you to sustain these efforts, as the government alone cannot meet all development
needs of our various communities.
“Thank you for the kind sentiments expressed about my administration and our modest efforts to develop every part of the State.”
The Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Hon. Jude Chukwunwike noted that the presentation of the Staff of Office marks a new chapter in the history of Egbudu Akah community, emphasizing that the processes that led to the installation of the King were done following the due process as laid by the custom of the kingdom.
He appreciated the Governor for his laudable projects executed across the state, adding that the M.O.R. E. Agenda was yielding democratic dividends.
In his welcome address, Obi Augustine Nzemeke Okolie III, the Obi of
Egbudu Akah that the Governor Oborevwori-led administration holds traditional rulers in very high esteem.
The Obi in an address read by Mr Emeka Agulu, said, “this presentation of Staff of Office is a practical demonstration of our Governor’s respect for the traditional institution and the reflection of democratic trends at the grassroot.
“We thank our amiable Governor for making these delightful expectation a reality.”
