Itsekiris worldwide are in festive mood following the successful presentation of Prince Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, 37 as the Olu of Warri designate.
The presentation which held at the ancestral home of the Itsekiris, Ode Itsekiri (Big Warri), was preceded by the announcement of the demise of His Majesty Ogiame Ikenwoli, the Olu of Warri by the Iyasere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Atserunleghe.
Clad in full traditional regalia, the Iyasere symbolically broke three earthen pots containing white native chalk in the floor, followed by twenty cannon shots to announce the demise of the late king that reigned for five years.
He announced a period of three months mourning, forbidding any social activities in Iwere land.
This was followed by presentation of Prince Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko as the Omo-Oba (Olu designate) of Warri Kingdom to the acclaim of all. Omo-Oba Emiko will be crowned after a 90-day seclusion – a period in which he would be tutored on the culture and tradition of Itsekiri people and the kingship protocols.
The new Monarch designate, Omoba Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko was born of Aril 2 1984 to Prince Godwin Toritseju Emiko (the late Olu of of Warri; Ogiame Atuwatse 11) and Gladys Durorike Emiko in Warri, Delta State. He studied in Nigeria for primary and secondary school education before travelling to USA where he obtained his bachelor and master’s degrees in politics/international studies and management respectively.
Prince Emiko has garnered wide experience after his graduation and the National Youths Service. He worked as an officer of Shell Closed Pension Fund Administrator, and in business; founded Noble Nigeria Limited and Coral Curator Limited. He is also Chairman: Ocean Marine Security Limited and Vesslelink Nigeria Limited.
The presentation ceremony drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including; Oba Akinola Oyetade Aderera, the Olubosin of Ife and Adekunle Adeayo Adeagbo, the Ore of Otun Eketi who represented the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.
Following the successful presentation, the Alema of Warri Kingdom Oritsejolomi Uduaghan sent his message of congratulations to the Omoba.
Chief Udughan also expressed appreciation to all Itsekiris for their steadfastness and believe in the process of presenting Omoba Emiko. He stated that with the event, Itsekiris all over the world are excited as it portends a new dawn for Warri Kingdom.