By Austin Ogwuda
THE Ugoani of Okpanam kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Michael Mbanefo Ogbolu made first public appearance on Thursday as he led other members of Ugoani-in-Council to celebrate the birthday of one of the illustrious sons of the community, Chief Patrick Ukah, the Akatakpoenyi of Okpanam currently the Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency.
The Ugoani along with other members of Ugoani-in-Council were at the St Michael’s Catholic Church Okpanam with numerous well-wishers to mark the birthday.
He noted that Chief Ukah’s leadership has made a significant impact on the development and growth of Delta State.
“His (Ukah) dedication to the community and tireless efforts in promoting infrastructural progress have been recognized and appreciated by many.
“As you mark another year, the Ugoani-in-Council expresses gratitude for your invaluable contributions and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Okpanam community”, the monarch stated.
Governor Oborevwori joins in celebrating Ukah too
Also, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated former Secretary to the State Government and current Director-General of the State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah, as he clocks 60 years on April 10.
Governor Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, said that Chief Ukah remained a great political tactician and exemplary administrator, who had contributed immensely to the growth of the public service of the state.
The governor noted that Ukah had had outstanding service to the state, serving as Commissioner for Information in 2015 – 2019; Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education from 2019 – 2021, and Secretary to the State Government from 2021 – 2023.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate an illustrious son of Okpanam and Delta, Chief Patrick Ukah, a great sports administrator, marketer and politician of repute and an outstanding patriot, as he celebrates 60 years.
“As a commissioner and SSG in the state, you were exceptionally committed to the cause of providing leadership to achieve set goals for our dear state,” Oborevwori said.
How the Palace reacted about rumours regarding Ugoani’s health
Recall that Ugoani Palace Spokesperson, Odih Christian Udoka at the heat of the rumours about the Ugoani health, came up with this press statement titled ‘Setting the Record Straight’ stated:
“Rumors have been circulating, allegedly spread by enemies of Okpanam and the Royal Household, suggesting that HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo Ogbolu JP, the Ugoani of Okpanam, has embarked on a journey. We would like to take this opportunity to address these claims and provide clarity on the matter.
“It has come to our attention that certain individuals have been spreading false information about the Ugoani’s whereabouts, seemingly with the intention of causing concern and distress among the people of Okpanam. We want to assure the public that these claims are entirely unfounded and without merit.
“The Ugoani of Okpanam, HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo Ogbolu JP, is alive and well, and we are confident that he will continue to lead our community with wisdom and integrity for many years to come. Those who wish him harm or spread malicious rumors about his health will only end up praying for his long life, as his legacy and impact on our community will undoubtedly endure.
“We urge the people of Okpanam to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the misinformation spread by our enemies. We must stand united and continue to support our beloved Ugoani, who has always put the interests of our community at heart.
“The Ugoani’s leadership has been a blessing to our community, and we are grateful for his tireless efforts to promote the welfare and well-being of our people. We are confident that he will continue to guide us with wisdom and vision, and we look forward to many more years of peace, prosperity, and progress under his leadership.
“To those who spread these malicious rumors, we say: your efforts to undermine the Ugoani’s authority and create confusion among our people will not succeed. The Ugoani of Okpanam will live longer than our enemies will ever expect, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us for generations to come.
“We call on all well-meaning members of our community to join us in condemning these malicious rumors and to stand in solidarity with our beloved Ugoani. Together, we can overcome the challenges posed by our enemies and continue to build a brighter future for ourselves and our children.
“In conclusion, we want to reiterate that the Ugoani of Okpanam is alive and well, and we are confident that he will continue to lead our community with wisdom and integrity. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and to report any further attempts to spread misinformation or undermine the Ugoani’s authority.
Long live the Ugoani of Okpanam! Long live Okpanam!”.
