By: EMMA ARUBI, Warri
The Olu of Warri Kingdom in Delta State, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse 111, CFR, has issued out awards of recognition to 10 outstanding Itsekiri sons and daughters for their immense contributions to the growth, development and upliftment of the Itsekiri nation in particular and Nigeria in general.
The awards ceremony, part of the activities earmarked for his third coronation anniversary, was held at both Ode-Itsekiri, the traditional headquarters of Warri Kingdom and the Olu’s palace in the Oil-City of Warri.
The revered royal father who decorated the ten eminently notable Itsekiri sons and daughters for their patriotic contributions on Saturday stated that these are Nigerians who has attained the highest laurels in their various chosen career and brought fame, pride and glory to the development of Warri Kingdom and Nigeria at large.
The recipients include the veteran Journalist and Publisher of the most widely circulated Vanguard Newspapers, Sam Amuka-Pemu(sad sam) and Engr. Felix Omatsola, Ade Mabo, Julius Dediare Rone (king of Gas), Mr Alfred Temile (oil and maritime business guru). Others are Dr.Ajorutsedere Awosika (Banking Icon), Mr. Eworitsewarami Justin Wilbert, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Misan Harriman and Nigeria’s representative on the FIFA Council, Mr. Amaju Pinnick respectively.
The monarch lauded the recipients, and personally decorated them on behalf of the Royal Iwere Society.
In his acceptance speech, Amuka-Pemu, also known as “Uncle Sam”, expressed gratitude to the monarch for the honour bestowed upon him and attributed the King’s ascension to the throne and his activities over the past three years to divine direction.
“It is God Almighty who gave him the throne. He (God) is also the one directing his steps”, he stated.
Similarly, Pinnick, who could not hide his joy, thanked the monarch for the honour and promised to be more committed to the development of the Itsekiri.
Pinnick said, “Your Majesty, this is a very big honour. I want to thank you.”
The king of gas, Mr. Julius Dediare Rone, thanked the monarch for finding him worthy and decorating him with the award, which he described as “very special” to him.
He said, “I have been honoured all over the world, but this is the best award I have ever received,” as he pledged his allegiance to the monarch and the throne, praying that the Olu’s reign will continue to bring development and greater achievements to Warri Kingdom.
Mr Ade Mabo lauded the monarch and urged the Itsekiri people to rally around the King in the ongoing efforts to further develop Warri Kingdom even as he appealed for a stronger unity amongst Itsekiris.