By Austin Ogwuda
“Last year, we banished the term slaves from our palace because we believe that all are created equal by God. And this will affirm their beliefs in the equality of all. We are created by God and we have equal dignity but we are also committed to change. If we don’t change, we are dying”.
These were the words of the Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III while speaking at a grand reception held at the palace on Wednesday when his subjects from across the various Iwere communities paid him homage as part of the activities to mark his 3rd coronation anniversary celebration.
The Olu who was full of praises and thanksgiving to God for the journey so far spoke in English and Itsekiri languages.
His words: “Three years ago, the Itsekiri nation extended hand of peace and collaboration to her neighbours on the land and sea. Since then, we have made significance strides in promoting peace and co-existence based on love and mutual respect for all.
“We stand on the universal foundation of justice and peace and equity within the rule of law and we are committed to maintaining this peaceful and respectful relationships ensuring the safety and peace of all. Our progress is a testimony to our commitment to this end.
“Last year, we banished the term slaves from our palace because we believe that all are created equal by God. And this will affirm their beliefs in the equality of all. We are created by God and we have equal dignity but we are also committed to change. If we don’t change, we are dying.
“Aghofen is the symbol of refuge and a place to seek refuge. We welcome all Itsekiris to the crown.
“Our collective dreams and aspirations can only be fulfilled through unity. If I may also add, humility.
“As Itsekiri people, looking back we may have good reasons to have a sense of pride and that’s fine. But going forward, there’s a type of pride that we must do away with. The pride that hinders, the pride that blinds, the pride that divides, the pride that carnibalises, the pride that betrays, the pride that destroys.
“We don’t have to remain proud and certainly don’t have to remain wicked. Not only has God given us authority over this Kingdom, He has given us creative powers and He has given us powerful example by calling for light out of darkness.
“In this same way, Itsekiri, I call you out of useless pride. I call you out of wickedness and in its place, I bless you with wisdom, with vision, with industry, with creativity, with productivity and with fruitfulness.
“May your eyes be opened to embrace and appraise these new values as we embark on a new phase of togetherness in Iwere land. The new phase promises growth, prosperity and a stronger sense of commitment”, he stated.
Credit: Emerald News
