WARRI, Delta State – Today, the revered Aghofen (Palace of the Olu of Warri) resonated with the powerful beats of Itsekiri drums and the vibrant hues of traditional attire as it hosted the 14th edition of Ghigho Aghofen, the ongoing “Palace Watch” ceremony. This quarter’s celebration marked Ugboegungun community’s graceful handover of their watch duties to Ekurede community, signifying another significant chapter in the Warri Kingdom’s rich cultural tapestry.
As the morning sun burst over the palace grounds, the air vibrated with the rhythmic sounds of the Iye Ogume, Oton Ogun, Okiri, Pokiri, Agba, and Oma drums, signalling the arrival of the Ekurede Community. Dressed resplendently in vibrant green kemijes for men and matching green blouses for women, both adorned with crisp white wrappers, Ekurede members unleashed a whirlwind of energy. Their feet pounded out the rhythms of their ancestors, each step weaving a living narrative of tradition and identity. The Ekurede contingent was proudly led by their esteemed Chief Edwin Eyitemi Olley, the Agbarame of Warri.
The outgoing Ugboegungun community, having diligently served their three-month watch, were equally a sight to behold. Men sported striking red kemijes and women red blouses, both complementing their attire with a specially designed green wrapper featuring the distinctive Ugboegungun logo – a proud nod to their ancestral roots in the Egungun (Baobab tree). They were led by Chief Samuel K. Omẹbẹyinjẹ, the Olugbo of Warri. As is now customary at Ghigho Aghofen, other tribes and groups present also contributed to the festive atmosphere, presenting special dances that enthralled His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR and the assembled guests.
In a poignant moment, as the Ugboegungun Community relinquished their watch duty, Ekurede formally received the sacred flag from the throne with immense pride. His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, through the eloquent words delivered by Chief Brown Mene, the Ogwaolusan of Warri, extolled the virtues of unity and harmony, sending a powerful message of peace across the entire Warri Kingdom.
This vibrant display of heritage sent ripples through the socio-cultural landscape of the Warri Kingdom. People from diverse horizons – Yorubas, Ilajes, Igalas, Igbos, and more – converged to witness the spectacle, transforming the quarterly celebration into a powerful testament to the kingdom’s rich tapestry of coexisting cultures.
In this beautiful moment, His Majesty reaffirmed the Warri Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to preserving its cherished heritage while warmly embracing its burgeoning diversity. Ghigho Aghofen continues to stand as a beacon, illuminating the path forward, a path paved with the timeless rhythms of tradition, the vibrant energy of community, and the profound beauty of cultural expression.
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