Shock, disbelief in Warri over Olu’s ‘rumoured’ death

SHOCK and disbelief best describe the mood of Warri residents yesterday as the news of the alleged demise of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II, became public.

He was the chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.

His palace however, wore a quiet atmosphere as concerned well wishers walked in and out of the royal home yesterday.

Several of those contacted yesterday for comments turned down the gesture, saying they cannot comment until the traditional council conventionally announces the monarch’s demise. The others outrightly rejected the offer for obvious reasons.

When The Guardian contacted the Obi of Owa Kingdom, who is the First Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, for confirmation of the Olu’s demise, his media aide said the monarch was in a meeting.

The Media Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (Print), Mr. Victor Efeizoormor, told The Guardian that the state government would soon release its official statement on the alleged death of the monarch.

A lawyer, Mr. Robinson Ariyo, who champions several Itsekiri youths’ advancement programmes, told The Guardian yesterday “customarily, I am prohibited from doing so until it is announced formally by the traditional council.”

However, human rights lawyer, Oghenejabor Ikimi, who is also coordinator of the Centre for the Vulnerable and Underprivileged (CENTREP), described the Olu as an exceptional monarch with wisdom and vision.

He said, “ May his soul rest in peace. The sudden demise of the respected Olu of Warri is very painful because he was a leader and monarch that knew the way and he showed his subjects the way. I pray God to grant his immediate family and subject the fortitude to bear this great loss. His demise is also a reminder to mankind that the earth and her contents are subject to decay.”