19th Ghigho Aghofen: Utonlila Takes Over Palace Watch from Bobi Community

WARRI, Delta State – Aghofen, the Palace of the Olu of Warri, erupted in vibrant color, rhythm, and traditional theatre today during the 19th edition of Ghigho Aghofen, the iconic Change of Palace Guard ceremony. The momentous event saw the Bobi community formally hand over the sacred palace watch to the incoming Utonlila community.

In keeping with longstanding palace tradition and court protocol, His Majesty was flanked by the two most senior chiefs available on the day: Chief Engr. Oma Eyewuoma, the Ologbotsere of Warri, seated on the right hand of Ogiame. Chief Gabriel Awala, the Uwangue of Warri, seated on the left hand of Ogiame.

Arranged behind the Ologbotsere, the rest of the Warri traditional chiefs were seated strictly according to palace hierarchy and their respective dates of installation, underscoring the enduring order and structure of the Iwere royal court.

A Contrast of Regal Attire

The ceremonial grounds were painted with rich cultural sartorial displays:

• Bobi Community (Outgoing): Marked their exit adorned entirely in pristine white, wearing white kemeje (shirts) for men and white blouses for women, beautifully matched with white wrappers.
• Utonlila Community (Incoming): Stepped forward in striking regalia featuring rich green kemeje and green blouses, brilliantly offset by radiant orange wrappers.

The Ritual Entry and the Dance Drama Takeover

Following tradition, the outgoing Bobi community treated His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, and the assembled royal court to spirited cultural entertainment. At the conclusion of Bobi’s presentation, Utonlila representatives stepped forward to formally request permission to enter the palace grounds through Chief Omolubi.

Once Ogiame granted royal assent, Utonlila made their entrance through a dramatic, synchronized dance confrontation. In a lively, competitive dance drama portraying Bobi’s reluctance to relinquish their watch duties and Utonlila’s determined bid to assume control, both sides matched rhythm and steps. After minutes of thrilling displays, Utonlila emerged victorious in the dance battle, symbolically earning their right to the watch.

Ceremonial Flag Exchange and Leadership

Following the dramatic contest, the sacred transition took place before the throne:

• The outgoing Bobi community respectfully retrieved their flag after three months of faithful service.
• The incoming Utonlila community received their new flag directly from the hands of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, to be hoisted on the palace grounds for the incoming quarter.

The Utonlila delegation was proudly led by Chief Omolubi Newuwumi and Chief Engr. Mone, working alongside the leadership of the community. Utonlila community is also home to Chief Dr. (Mrs.) P.E.B. Uku, a revered palace chief remarkably serving her fourth Olu of Warri and Chief Robinson Ariyo.

Royal Address and Next Edition

AnnouncementSpeaking on behalf of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, Chief Mene Brown delivered the royal address. He warmly thanked the Bobi community for their steadfast and dedicated service over the past three months, while officially welcoming the Utonlila community as they commence their own three-month palace watch tenure.

Chief Brown also formally announced the date for the landmark 20th edition of Ghigho Aghofen, scheduled to hold on 19th December 2026, when the Ugboritseduwa community will step forward to replace Utonlila community.

The Ghigho Aghofen Watch Roll Call (1st to 20th Edition)