WARRI, DELTA STATE – The Palace of the Olu of Warri (Aghofen) was a vibrant canvas of culture, reverence, and unity today, as His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, CFR, presided over the 17th edition of the Ghigho Aghofen.
In a colourful handover ceremony, the Ugbolokposo Community from Uvwie Local Government Area officially assumed the prestigious duty of the Palace Watch, succeeding the Olobe Community from Warri South West LGA, who successfully concluded their three-month tenure, which began in December 2025.
Ugwa-Olu: A Historic Prelude
The transition activities commenced earlier in the week on Thursday, when His Majesty undertook the Ugwa-Olu—a historic royal visit to the Olobe community. The visit served as a royal benediction and a gesture of appreciation for their dedicated service and unwavering loyalty to the Crown over the past quarter.
A Tapestry of Colours and Royal Leadership
As His Majesty stepped into the moment today, the Palace responded in rhythm and awe. The handover ceremony was a visual feast, defined by the distinct Itsekiri traditional attire and the regal leadership of both the outgoing and incoming communities:
- The Outgoing Olobe Community: Led by a distinguished triumvirate of Chiefs—Chief Anthony Ewarami Onuwaje (The Oshodi of Warri Kingdom), Chief (Mrs.) Esther Okotie-Ẹboh (The Iye of Warri Kingdom), and Chief (Dr.) Wilson Olley Ẹdun (The Aboludero of Warri Kingdom)—the community stood tall and proud, dressed elegantly in white kemeje and blouses, complemented by rich green wrappers.
- The Incoming Ugbolokposo Community: Led by Chief Francis Ọmatsẹye (The Udefi of Warri Kingdom), they signalled their fresh tenure by stepping out in immaculate, all-white ensembles of kemeje, blouses, and wrappers.
Both communities took to the centre stage, entertaining His Majesty, the Chiefs, and the dignitaries with captivating rhythmic dances and cultural displays that highlighted the beauty ofWarri Kingdom in full expression.
Unity in Diversity and Shared Duty
The 17th Ghigho Aghofen further cemented the Palace as a hub of inter-ethnic harmony. Beyond the Itsekiri displays, guests were treated to vibrant cultural entertainment from other resident tribes, notably the Igbo and Ilaje communities, reflecting the inclusive leadership of the Warri monarch.
Chiefs and dignitaries—the custodians of culture and voices of tradition—gathered in dignity and pride. Their regal presence told a story of lineage and authority, proving that the strength of the Kingdom lies not just in titles, but in unity, respect, and the shared duty to uphold generational heritage.
Today’s ceremony was not just a collection of fleeting moments; it is a living memory of the 17th Ghigho Aghofen, perfectly capturing the people, the presence, and the enduring power of Itsekiri tradition.
