By Ochuko Akuopha

OLEH—GOVE-RNOR Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has charged traditional rulers to build bridges of unity and peace across all kingdoms to fast-track the overall growth and development of the state.

Speaking during the 80th  birthday/ 23rd  coronation anniversary of the Odio-Ologbo of Oleh Kingdom, HRM Ovrawah Omogha I, the governor reiterated the determination of his administration to partner traditional rulers to build a viral state of the dream of all Deltans.

Describing Omogha I, as very vibrant and full of life, Okowa, represented by the State Deputy Governor, Mr. Kingsley Otuaro, congratulated the monarch, noting that “The traditional institution in our state is very dear to us as a government.

GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Okowa

This, of course, is against the backdrop of the fact that we acknowledge very strongly that our traditional institution and our traditional rulers sitting on the thrones of such institutions are custodians of our lands and custodians of our people.

“Government and governance is all about the people and if our traditional rulers are the custodians of the land, culture and tradition of our people, it therefore means that we are bonded together in one accord and that is why we will continually collaborate and partner with our traditional institution.”

“This ceremony calls for greater partnership to building a Delta State of our dream. We thank our traditional rulers for the consistent role they are playing in the Senator Okowa led government of Delta State”.

On his part, former Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Alexander Ogomudia (retd), noted that Omogha I’s reign had witnessed unprecedented spate of development in the kingdom. He said the monarch had been zealous in the preservation of the culture of his people and had “successfully managed the affairs of the Oleh kingdom in the last 23 years”.

Earlier in his homily at John The Baptist Catholic Church, Oleh, Rev. Fr. Christopher Ezimadu said the monarch had impressive track record as a royal father.