By Atlantic Reports

The traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his administration's efforts to promote peace and unity, describing stability as essential to the community's development and prosperity.

The monarch spoke during the kingdom's annual Iwuji New Yam Festival, which brought together traditional chiefs, community leaders, cultural groups and residents in a celebration of agricultural heritage and communal identity.

The festivities featured a procession through Ogwashi-Uku, traditional performances, homage to the royal father and prayers for the continued peace and prosperity of the kingdom.

Okonjo said the participation of residents from different quarters reflected what he considered an improvement in relationships within the community.

Monarch Credits Governor With Promoting Unity

Speaking after the procession, the Obi acknowledged the Delta State Government's contribution to peacebuilding efforts in Ogwashi-Uku.

“I am truly grateful to the Delta government, particularly the governor, who has worked so hard and tirelessly to bring peace and to foster unity within the kingdom,” he said.

The monarch also credited Oborevwori with supporting efforts to preserve the kingdom's unity and prevent divisions.

He maintained that peaceful coexistence was necessary for development, social stability and stronger relationships among residents.

Although the monarch praised the governor's interventions, he did not identify specific government programmes or security measures responsible for the improvements he described.

His remarks nevertheless highlighted the importance of cooperation between government authorities, traditional institutions and community stakeholders in resolving local disputes.

Iwuji Festival Celebrates Harvest and Cultural Heritage

The Iwuji Festival is an important cultural occasion in Ogwashi-Uku, marking the end of an agricultural season and providing an opportunity for thanksgiving.

New yam celebrations across many communities in southern Nigeria are associated with the harvest, communal gatherings and the preservation of customs passed down through generations.

In Ogwashi-Uku, the annual festival also serves as a platform for strengthening relationships among families, traditional institutions and different quarters of the kingdom.

Explaining the significance of the celebration, Okonjo said:

“What we are having today is our ‘Iwuji’ festival, the new yam festival, which marks the end of the old season where we celebrate and give thanks to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest he has given the kingdom.”

He described the turnout as evidence of renewed community solidarity.

“We see people from every quarter in Ogwashi-Uku present. It shows that peace and unity have returned to us all,” he added.

Beyond its ceremonial significance, the festival provides younger generations with opportunities to learn about indigenous traditions, community history and the cultural values associated with the harvest season.

Community Resources Must Serve Collective Interests

The monarch also used the occasion to emphasise the importance of managing communal resources for the benefit of residents.

He said efforts were underway to move away from practices that prioritised the disposal of community assets towards approaches intended to create lasting value.

“The focus has changed from just selling off our resources, our commonwealth to utilising the resources for the benefit of the larger community,” he stated.

His comments raised broader questions about the management of communal property and how proceeds from shared resources can contribute to development.

Responsible management of such assets could support education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment and other community priorities.

However, the monarch did not provide details of specific projects, financial commitments or arrangements for managing the resources.

Clear information about these initiatives would help residents understand how the proposed approach will improve their welfare.

Okonjo Pledges Continued Commitment to Ogwashi-Uku

Obi Okonjo, a younger brother of World Trade Organisation Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, thanked residents who had supported efforts to strengthen peace within the kingdom.

He acknowledged the contributions of community members who had worked with the traditional institution to encourage reconciliation and cooperation.

“I want to thank the people of Ogwashi-Uku who have stood fast, particularly those who have worked very hard with me to bring about peace and unity and to tell them that I will not betray their trust,” he said.

The monarch pledged to continue pursuing initiatives intended to advance the kingdom's interests.

“I will continue to fight for Ogwashi-Uku and continue to make sure that we push those things that will make our kingdom great.”

His remarks placed emphasis on the responsibilities of traditional leadership beyond ceremonial functions, particularly in promoting community cohesion and development.

Traditional Chief Welcomes Wider Participation

The Odogwu of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Gabriel Ohai, also commended the monarch for his efforts to preserve the kingdom's cultural heritage and encourage peaceful relationships among residents.

Ohai said the large turnout demonstrated growing participation from different sections of the community.

“It is evident in the crowd. You can see that from every quarter in the kingdom, people came out en-masse,” he said.

He observed that residents from Ogbe Odogwu and Azungu, including some who had previously stayed away from communal celebrations, participated in this year's festivities.

“People are happy. They are beginning to realise that the Obi means well,” he added.

Ohai said members of the traditional institution were encouraged by the level of participation and the atmosphere surrounding the celebration.

His observations suggested that the festival had become an opportunity for residents to renew social connections and demonstrate solidarity across community divisions.

Beyond Celebration, the Challenge of Sustaining Peace

The Ogwashi-Uku New Yam Festival brought attention to the continuing role of traditional celebrations in preserving cultural identity and strengthening communal relationships.

Through processions, performances and collective thanksgiving, residents celebrated their agricultural heritage while reaffirming the importance of peaceful coexistence.

However, sustaining unity beyond the festival will require continued dialogue, inclusive leadership and transparent management of community resources.

For residents, the practical measure of progress will be whether the peace described by traditional leaders translates into improved security, economic opportunities and access to essential services.

As Ogwashi-Uku looks towards another agricultural season, the message from its traditional leadership remains centred on preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds and ensuring that shared resources contribute to the well-being of present and future generations.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.