His Royal Majesty, Prof. Wilson Ojakovo, Oharisi III, the Ovie of the Great Ughelli Kingdom, on Sunday, April 20, commemorated his 33rd coronation anniversary with the formal dedication of the Ughelli Ultramodern Palace and the newly constructed royal chapel, both projects 18 years in the making.
The historic occasion, which fell on Easter Sunday, was graced by a host of dignitaries including the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; who was represented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Komuko Akari Kharin, the Founder of Word of Life Bible Church, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor; respected traditional rulers from across the country; clergy; political leaders; and an enthusiastic gathering of Ughelli sons and daughters.
The dedication and anniversary ceremony was presided over by the Archbishop of Bendel Province of the Nigerian Anglican Communion, Most Revd. Cyril Odutemu, who lauded the monarch for his peaceful and impactful reign.
In his sermon, the Archbishop described the Ovie as a man of wisdom, peace, and unwavering faith, offering fervent prayers for continued prosperity and divine guidance upon the Ughelli Kingdom.
“This is more than just the dedication of structures; it is a celebration of divine leadership, cultural continuity, and enduring peace under a visionary king,” Archbishop Odutemu said. “May this palace and chapel remain symbols of unity and divine favor.”
In his remarks during a chat with journalists, HRM Oharisi III, expressed deep gratitude to God and to the people of Ughelli for their steadfast support over the past three decades.
“One thing is to be successful; another is to be able to gather people,” the Ovie said. “Some try and cannot, but in my case, God stood by me, and all my people stood by me. My fellow traditional rulers also stood by me. And today, we celebrate not just my 33 years on the throne, but also the completion of a vision long in the making.”
The monarch spoke passionately about the journey toward completing the palace and chapel, highlighting the sacrifices and perseverance put into the project.
While drawing inspiration from the significance of Easter, he emphasized that the choice of date, April 20th, was divinely orchestrated.
“Many advised me to postpone the celebration, but I said no, April 20th is the day I was crowned. The fact that it falls on Easter Sunday this year is God’s design, not mine,” he said.
Known for his spiritual devotion, the Ovie also used the occasion to offer prayers and wise counsel to his people. He urged them to embrace peace, honesty, and hard work.
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“Even if you lack, I pray God will bless the works of your hands. Do not covet another’s property. May whatever you do prosper. I wish you all prosperity, peace, and long life in Jesus’ name,” he prayed.
The monarch also offered words of hope and thanksgiving: “We have seen sickness, and it has passed. Now, we welcome success. With God, all things are possible.”
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Engr. Kharin pointed at his admiration for the Ughelli monarch’s exemplary leadership.
“His Royal Majesty has been a symbol of unity and strength, not just for Ughelli but for the entire region. On behalf of the Bayelsa State Government, I extend our warm congratulations on this great milestone and pray for more impactful years of peace, growth, and divine wisdom on the throne,” Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s message read.
Also Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor in his remarks commended the monarch’s reign, calling the palace a physical manifestation of vision, faith, and determination.
The event featured vibrant cultural performances, praise and worship, goodwill messages, and an air of celebration.
