ADEMETO ADELEKAN
PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the Itsekiri nation on the announcement of a new Olu of Warri-designate.
He urged them to reconcile their differences after the race for the throne and condoled with the people on the passage of the immediate past Olu, His Majesty, Ogiame Ikenwoli.
Buhari, who spoke in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, prayed for a peaceful reign under the new Olu of Warri-designate, Prince Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko.
The statement said, “President Muhammadu Buhari sends sincere greetings to the Itsekiri nation on the announcement of a new Olu of Warri, as pronounced by the Iyatsere of Warri Kingdom.
“The President also condoles with the Itsekiris on the passage of the immediate past Olu, His Majesty, Ogiame Ikenwoli, which was equally formally announced.
“President Buhari prays that the Olu-designate, Prince Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, will have a peaceful reign, signposted by massive development of Itsekiri land.”
“He counsels love and reconciliation after a pulsating race for the throne, noting that peradventure any dissension exists, such should be resolved through due process.
“As the Itsekiri nation mourns their departed Olu for three months, President Buhari prays Godly comfort for them, and a smooth ascendancy for the incoming monarch,” the statement added.
Suspended Ologbotsere of Warri, Chief Ayiri Emami, had, on Tuesday, explained that his opposition to the emergence of Prince Emiko as Olu-elect was because the Ruling House did not follow due process.
“I have no personal problem with Tsola Emiko. He is very close to me. All I said is that he must follow the tradition and custom. I will not dance to the gallery,” he said.
