Ojoye Engr. Dr. Wilson Olley Edun Celebrates Tradition and Service as Warri Kingdom Welcomes New Chiefs

Ojoye Engr. Dr. Wilson Olley Edun, the Aboludero of Warri Kingdom (Opuaro), a respected Palace Chief of the Olu of Warri and a noted philanthropist, has gracefully congratulated the sons of Warri Kingdom recently elevated to the revered ranks of chieftaincy. The historic investiture took place on Saturday, 20 December 2025, at the Palace of the Olu of Warri during the 16th edition of the Ghighò Aghòfen, the sacred palace watch ceremony. Presided over by His Majesty, Ogiame Atúwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, the historic event is a reflection of the resilience of Itsekiri tradition and the unbroken thread of royal service that binds the past to the present.

Chief Olley described the installation of chieftaincy titles as more than ceremonial recognition, noting that it is a great responsibility placed on men whose lives reflect integrity, loyalty, and selfless commitment to the Kingdom. According to him, such honours are not casually bestowed but earned through years of visible service to community, culture, and progress. He praised the Olu of Warri for his discerning leadership, stressing that the selection of these individuals speaks volumes about the Palace’s commitment to sustaining excellence, character, and development within Warri Kingdom.

Among those honoured with traditional titles were Ojoye Okpeyor John Daje (Ogidinagba ti Warri), Ojoye Yomere Sony (Akpasire ti Warri), Ojoye Reyeneju Daniel (Ojogun ti Warri), and Ojoye Mone Mayomi (Ugboleghe ti Warri). Chief Olley observed that their elevation reflects years of quiet but impactful service across social, cultural, and professional spheres, reinforcing the idea that the Palace values contribution and dedication over mere prominence.

In the Ambassage category, several distinguished individuals were also recognised for strengthening bonds between Warri Kingdom and neighbouring tribes. These include Ojoye Anthony Akoji (Arun Igala ti Warri), Ojoye Oluwasoji Akinwale (Arun Oroke ti Warri), Ojoye Clauduis Ugbo (Udo-mereyon ti Warri), Ojoye Ezekiel Oyetakin (Arun Ilaje ti Warri), Ojoye Steven Amalili (Arun Otsowo ti Warri), and Ojoye Okwudili Ugochukwu (Arun Igbo ti Warri). Their installation, Chief Olley noted, highlights the Kingdom’s long-standing tradition of inclusiveness, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence with other ethnic nationalities.

He urged the newly installed Chiefs to carry their titles with humility and a deep sense of purpose, reminding them that chieftaincy is fundamentally about service, not status. They are, he said, expected to be custodians of peace, unity, and development, working closely with the Palace to protect the dignity of the Itsekiri heritage. Chief Olley concluded by expressing profound appreciation to His Majesty, Ogiame Atúwatse III, CFR, for his visionary leadership that harmonises tradition with modern progress, while praying for wisdom, strength, and grace for the Chiefs as they embark on this renewed journey of service to the throne and the people.