By Jimitota Onoyume

Governor of Kogi state , Alhaji Yayaha Bello , Tuesday, paid homage to Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III,  advising him to promote peace in his reign  so as to achieve greater progress in Itsekiri nation.

“Conflicts of any kind are not in the best interest of any state or community least of all Itsekiri nation.  Your Royal Majesty should pursue peace with all men at all levels so that your kingdom will find sustained and accelerated progress”, he said.

The governor who was represented by a high powered delegation led by the Deputy Governor of the state,  Mr Edward Onoja  also congratulated the monarch  for his ascension to the throne, adding he hailed the inaugural speech by the monarch.

Governor Bello  said from the speech,  he saw  a young king full of  wisdom for the challenge  of leadership.

“I saw a Royal carriage and rare courage rooted in wisdom and certainly beyond your 37 years of age. The coronation ceremony was a fresh breath that swept through the land. “, he said.

READ ALSO: Gbajabiamila pays homage to Olu of Warri, urges monarchs to work with govt

Continuing, he expressed hope that the monarch was coming with progressive ideas that would take Itsekiri nation to greater heights.

He further congratulated governor Ifeanyi Okowa over the emergence of the monarch, adding that the government should always protect  the  king from those he called detractors and enemies.

Governor Bello also prayed for a peaceful, prosperous and long reign for the monarch.

Ogiame Atuwatse III , in his  remark, thanked the governor for the visit, noting that the relationship between Itsekiri nation and the people of Kogi will translate into greater gains in areas of commerce and related issues of development for the country.

He said Itsekiri nation shared historical relationship with the Igalla of Kogi, stressing that beyond the relationship he was looking at a greater bond between Itsekiri nation and other parts of the country that would add more values to the country.

“You are welcome. There is this historical connection that exist between us as Itsekiri and Igalla. I have been to Okene a few times before now. Kogi state will see more of me”, he said.

“When you look at history , we are truly united in this country even before colonialism came. I am happy with this visit from Kogi  state. It is my desire that the historical connection will manifest into greater gains , development for us and our country”, he said.

The Brigade Commander , 63 Brigade, , Brigadier General Idris  Abdurahman  also paid similar visit  on the monarch, assuring that  the army would continue to effectively provide its security roles in Warri kingdom and other parts of the state. He also called for Royal blessings from the monarch.

The monarch who  commended the army for the visit, said he would  always give them the support to achieve their goals.

“Thanks for the kind words. We welcome you. We will give you all the support . I formally extend our blessings to you “, he said.

Vanguard News Nigeria