WARRI, DELTA STATE – Saturday, December 23, 2025, marked a historic and truly momentous occasion in the Warri Kingdom, as the Palace of the Olu of Warri, Aghòfen, came alive with festivities of profound cultural significance.
In a grand ceremony that seamlessly blended ancient tradition with modern inclusivity, His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, CFR, The Olu of Warri, presided over the 16th edition of the Ghighò Aghòfen (Palace Watch) ceremony. The event was made even more significant by the conferment of Chieftaincy titles on ten deserving individuals, marking a new chapter in the administrative and diplomatic life of the Kingdom.
A Gathering of Titans
The 16th Ghigho Aghofen has solidified the event’s status as a hotspot for cultural exchange and a phenomenon in Nigerian traditional culture. The event attracted a galaxy of royal fathers and high-profile dignitaries who came to witness the spectacle.
** distinguished Royal Guests included:**
- His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe, The Obi of Onitsha, Anambra State.
- His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, The Olowo of Owo, Ondo State.
- His Imperial Majesty, Oba Oluwasegun Williams Akinyomi, The Amapetu of Mahin Land, Ondo State.
- His Majesty, King (Amb.) Noble Friday Uwoh (CSP RTD), The Igbu-Ehuda of Ancient Ahoada Kingdom, Rivers State.
- His Majesty, Attah Matthew Opaluwa, the Attah of Igala Land, Kogi State.
Other Eminent Personalities:
- Chief Chiedu Ebie – Chairman, NDDC.
- Hon. Samuel Oligida – Delta State Trade and Investment Commissioner.
- Patrick Doyle – Veteran Nigerian film star.
- Professor Anthony Kila.
A Masterstroke of Inclusivity: The Installation of Chiefs
The atmosphere was brimming with the enduring spirit of harmony as the Chieftaincy conferments unfolded in two distinct phases. His Majesty elevated exemplary sons of Iwere land to the status of Ojoye (Chiefs), while also inducting a fresh cadre of “Ambassage Chiefs.”
The Ambassage Chiefs are distinguished individuals from diverse non-Itsekiri tribes—including Igbo, Yoruba, Igala, and Ilaje—who call Warri home and have tirelessly advanced its prosperity. This move, hailed by admirers as a royal masterstroke, underscores the cosmopolitan nature of Warri and the Monarch’s commitment to fostering inter-ethnic harmony.
The Newly Installed Chiefs of Warri Kingdom:
- Chief John Daje Okpeyo – The Ogidinagba of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Sunny Ayeomeretse Yomere – The Akpasire of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Hon. Daniel Oritsegbubemi Reyenieju – The Ojogun of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Engr. Mayomi Mone – The Ugboleghe of Warri Kingdom
The Newly Installed Ambassage Chiefs:
- Chief Dr. Engr. Salifu Anthony Akoji – The Arun Igala of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Olusoji Oyedele Akinwale – The Arun Oroke of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Prince Claudius Ugbo – The Udo-Mereyon of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Hon. Ezekiel Oyetakin – The Arun Ilaje of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Stephen Chinedum Amalili – The Arun Otsowo of Warri Kingdom
- Chief Sir Okwudili Ugochukwu – The Arun Igbo of Warri Kingdom
Following their installation, the new Chiefs performed their first official duty by dancing to greet His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III. In line with tradition, they will officially return the Monarch’s chieftaincy sword after three days, signaling the full commencement of their chieftaincies.
The 16th Ghigho Aghofen: Olobe Community Takes Charge
Following the installations, the spotlight shifted to the ceremonial Change of Palace Watch. The 16th edition saw the agrarian Orere-Uluba Community (Warri South LGA) hand over the baton of service to Olobe Community (Warri South-West LGA).
The transition was celebrated with vibrant cultural displays from both the outgoing and incoming communities.
About Olobe Community (Aja Otsodi)
The Olobe community, also known as Aja Otsodi (Ikeri-Gbobu), is steeped in rich history. It was founded by Eyimofe (known as Oniyemofe), the first Otsodi of Warri Kingdom and son of Udefi. Oniyemofe was the older brother to Olu Akenjioye. The community was established during the reigns of Olu Atogbuwa and Olu Erejuwa I (the 14th and 15th Olu of Warri, respectively).
The name “Olobe” is derived from the deity Olobe, worshipped by the founder and his brother. Culturally, the community is renowned for its traditional craft of making clay pots. These pots are not merely functional vessels but symbols of ancestral roots and community unity, serving as a tangible connection to their history.
A Royal Christmas Wish
As this joyous celebration coincided with the Christmas season, His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, CFR, and Her Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III, extended their warmest greetings to the gathered guests and all people of the Kingdom.
In their message, they wished all sons and daughters of Iwere land, near and far, a celebration filled with the light of Christ. They prayed for peace, renewed hope, love and abundant blessings for every home during this festive period and beyond.
The 16th Ghigho Aghofen was truly epic, offering Olobe community a rare opportunity to cultivate a one-on-one relationship with the Olu during their upcoming tenure of service.