The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has once again placed the Itsekiri Kingdom at the center of cultural pride and celebration as he led a breathtaking boat parade to Ode-Itsekiri, the ancestral homeland of his people, in honor of his 4th coronation anniversary.
The parade, which lit up the waterways with color and grandeur, saw the Olu at the helm aboard a striking royal red boat that commanded the procession. Following closely were dozens of uniquely decorated vessels, each symbolizing different families and communities within the Itsekiri kingdom. The sight of boats sailing in unison created a powerful display of cultural unity and tradition, reinforcing the deep bond shared across the kingdom.
Beyond the pageantry, the boat parade carried a profound message. It was not only a celebration of four years of wise and progressive leadership under Ogiame Atuwatse III, but also a reaffirmation of the historical significance of the Warri throne. The journey to Big Warri, the sacred island, culminated in a solemn ceremony where chiefs, dignitaries, and community members gathered to pay homage to their ancestors and honor the enduring strength of the Itsekiri monarchy.
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The celebration continued at Aghofen, the palace of the Olu, where festivities highlighted the richness of Itsekiri culture, from traditional music and dance to expressions of loyalty and unity among the people. This year’s coronation anniversary is part of a series of events designed to honor the Olu’s ascension to the throne in 2021, a moment that marked the beginning of a new era for the kingdom.
Four years on, Ogiame Atuwatse III has been widely praised for blending tradition with progress, ensuring that the Itsekiri heritage not only thrives but also inspires a vision of unity and development for future generations. The boat parade, vibrant yet deeply symbolic, stood as a testament to his leadership and the resilience of the Itsekiri people.
