UMUTE/Nigeria: The Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, underscored the significance of these age-old institutions. His words came to the fore during the official presentation of staff of office to His Royal Majesty, Emmanuel Nwonye Tobi Chukwuka, Okpala-Uku of Umute Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of the state.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori delivered a compelling message, urging Deltans to uphold the integrity of traditional rulers by bestowing upon them the respect and honor they rightfully deserve. He affirmed, “I am sure that the institution of the Okpala-Uku has great significance to you all and as such, you should all strive to promote the integrity of the stool by bestowing on His Royal Majesty the honor and respect that he truly deserves.”
Governor Oborevwori’s address was not limited to exhortations; he also called for unity and collaboration with the Okpala-Uku for the sustainable peace and progress of Umute Kingdom, Aniocha South Local Government Area, and Delta State as a whole. In his words, he appealed, “I urge all of you to give him your fullest support, love, cooperation, and understanding. He is one of you.”
Furthermore, the governor emphasized the importance of fairness and responsibility in the monarch’s duties, highlighting the need for democratic virtues such as dialogue and consultation to carry the people along in the pursuit of peace and development.
He articulated, “Your Royal Majesty, I appeal to you to discharge all your responsibilities by being fair and just to all and sundry. As the custodian of the traditional institution of your people, it is important that you uphold the sanctity of the customs. I appeal to you to imbibe the democratic virtues of dialogue and consultation in all your dealings with the people. That way, you carry all your people along.”
Governor Oborevwori also assured the people of Umute Kingdom that his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda would bring forth developmental projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of critical roads and the resuscitation of electricity supply to the Nsukwa clan.
He encouraged the people to form cooperative societies and engage with government agencies to boost economic and agricultural development, acknowledging that Umute is primarily composed of farmers, traders, and fishermen.
In a show of support for the governor’s vision, Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Hon. Jude Chukwunweike, expressed optimism that the M.O.R.E agenda would usher in an era of prosperity and democratic dividends for the people of Delta State.
Meanwhile, Umute Kingdom’s development committee chairman, Mr. Ifeanyi Ukolo, conveyed their gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for approving the construction of Phase 1 of Umute/Nsuka Road project, recognizing its potential to facilitate the transportation of farm produce to neighboring communities. He also appealed to the state government to expand the project to include other critical road connections and address the Nsukwa Clan Electricity Scheme’s rehabilitation.
As Delta State’s leadership highlights the significance of traditional institutions, it underscores the pivotal role they play in shaping the state’s future and fostering unity among its diverse communities.
