The Executive Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta State, Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his sustained support for traditional rulers and commitment to strengthening traditional institutions across the state.
Ogorugba gave the commendation during the official presentation of the Staff of Office to the traditional ruler of Iyede Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Peters Ufuoma Rarepet Ekperare I.
Speaking at the ceremony, the council chairman praised the Governor’s collaborative approach to traditional governance, noting that his administration had consistently demonstrated commitment to restoring the dignity, relevance and authority of traditional institutions through sustained support and interventions.
He described traditional rulers as indispensable partners in governance, particularly in preserving cultural heritage, maintaining peace, promoting unity and resolving disputes at the grassroots.
According to him, traditional institutions remain vital to community development and nation-building, adding that the traditional palace serves as an important link between government and the people.
Congratulating the new monarch, Ogorugba described the presentation of the Staff of Office as a historic milestone in the development of Iyede Kingdom.
He expressed confidence that the monarch’s reign would usher in a new chapter of peace, unity and progress, while providing a rallying point for the 17 villages and diverse interest groups that make up the kingdom.
He urged the people of Iyede Kingdom to rally behind their traditional ruler, stressing that sustainable development could only be achieved through collective responsibility, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.
Ogorugba also prayed for divine wisdom, strength and long life for the monarch, expressing optimism that his reign would bring lasting prosperity to the kingdom.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori, who was represented by his Deputy, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions, describing traditional rulers as critical stakeholders in governance, peacebuilding and grassroots development.
The Governor congratulated HRM Peters Ufuoma Rarepet Ekperare I on his recognition and ascension to the traditional throne, while commending the chiefs, elders and people of Iyede Kingdom for their patience and collective efforts in making the occasion possible.
He described the Staff of Office as not only a symbol of traditional authority but also a call to service, urging the monarch to discharge his responsibilities with wisdom, fairness and compassion.
The Governor further charged the traditional ruler to ensure that every village and family within the kingdom enjoyed a sense of belonging.
Addressing the people of the 17 villages, Oborevwori appealed for unity and reconciliation, urging them to set aside their differences and work together towards the overall development of Iyede Kingdom.
He also encouraged youths to prioritise education, skills acquisition and productive ventures, while urging women to remain active contributors to community development and the preservation of cultural values.
Oborevwori assured the people that his administration would continue to partner with traditional rulers in promoting peace, resolving communal disputes, preserving cultural heritage and mobilising communities for sustainable development.
The ceremony attracted several prominent political, traditional and community leaders, including the Executive Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Hon. Jaro Egbo, Esq.; former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Chief Ovuozourie Samuel Macaulay; Delta State APC Organising Secretary, Hon. Emmanuel Ajiri Egbabor; and Executive Director, Finance and Administration, DESOPADEC, Chief Oghenekome Reginald Okpobor.
Others were the Delta State APC candidate for Isoko North Constituency I, Engr. Ashakah Maro Orobosa; former Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Audit, Hon. Oviemuno Oghoore; member representing Isoko North Constituency, Hon. Bernard Odior; and immediate past member representing the constituency, Hon. Jude Ogbimi.
Also present were Chief Enahoro Eta, Managing Director of Skyward Nigeria Limited; Chief Iduh Amadhe, former President-General of the Isoko Development Union; Hon. Chief Frank Esiwo Ozue; APC candidate for Isoko North Constituency I, Alebe Joshua Onos; Isoko North Supervisor for Environment, Erero Jacob Oloku; SA to the Isoko North Council Chairman, Jude Ogwologho; the Director of Protocol to the Council Chairman, and other dignitaries.
By: Sam Erhunmwunsee, Radio Nigeria Asaba
