The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has on Saturday conferred the prestigious Royal Order of Iwere (ROI) on former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor; Dr. Helen Boyo Ekwueme, wife of the late former Vice President of Nigeria; and oil magnate, Dr. Ebi Omatsola.
Others honoured at the colourful ceremony held at the monarch’s palace in Warri, Delta State, were Mr. Oti Ikomi, a seasoned banker and industrialist, and Mrs. Tara Fela-Durotoye, renowned beauty entrepreneur. The event marked the sixth day of activities celebrating the monarch’s fourth coronation anniversary.
In his remarks, the Olu of Warri expressed joy at seeing prominent Itsekiri sons and daughters reconnect with their roots, urging more of those in the diaspora to return and identify with the kingdom.
“People I once mistook to be from other tribes are now identifying with the Itsekiri nation. We call again on all our sons and daughters to come back home. The ROI is special to me because Itsekiri people have always been known for excellence, and we will continue to celebrate those whose achievements are worth celebrating,” the monarch said.
He recalled how his late father, Ogiame Atuwatse II, was delighted when Pastor Oritsejafor became President of CAN and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), praying for the clergyman to finish strong in his missionary journey.
The monarch also appreciated past recipients of the honour, including Vanguard Publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka, and former NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, who attended the event in solidarity.
Speaking further, Ogiame Atuwatse III emphasized the role of culture in shaping identity and destiny, noting that true greatness lies in celebrating the achievements of ordinary people who strive against all odds.
In their responses, the honourees expressed gratitude for the recognition. Pastor Oritsejafor prayed for unity and blessings upon the throne and the Warri Kingdom, while Dr. Helen Boyo Ekwueme dedicated her award to her Jakpa family and the Itsekiri Sisters Forum, noting her late husband’s admiration for the Itsekiri nation and its culture.
The ceremony also featured a lecture on “Towards Iwere Renaissance: Evolving Strategies for Confronting Land and Language Issues,” adding depth to the ongoing anniversary celebrations.
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