Controversy as Olu of Warri installs new Ologbotsere, Ayiri kicks, walks out

There was controversy on Sunday as the Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III installed a new Ologbotsere (Prime Minister) of Warri Kingdom.

The new Ologbotsere is Chief Oma Eyewuoma, former Aboludero of Warri Kingdom. The controversial ceremony was held at the palace of the monarch in Warri.

“As far as Warri kingdom is concerned, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy. True reconciliation will not be forced on Ogiame.

“There is no son or daughter of Itsekiri that will hold this throne to ransom and so the terms of reconciliation will be determined by Ogiame. The reason we are doing this publicly is a divine one.

“I have struggled, resisted trying to come down and be vulnerable before my people. It is not an easy thing to do,” he said.

However, shortly after, Chief Ayirimi Emami walked out of the Olu of Warri, saying he remained the Ologbotsere, according to reports.

Ayiri said he was still in possession of the traditional beads that were presented to him by the former Kings, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse II and HRM Ogiame Ikenwoli and the Uda.

Chief Ayiri, who addressed members of the Ologbotsere descendants and supporters who accompanied him to his residence, displayed the traditional beads and the sword.

The spokesman for the Ologbotsere descendants worldwide, Alex Eyengho, later addressed newsmen and explained that the Ologbotsere title is “till death”.

He said for Emami to accept the title of his father, which is a “lesser title in the name of peace” would amount to “peace of the graveyard”.

Former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayodele Joseph Oritsejafor walked out of the meeting.

Former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan was present and remained at the event until it ended.

Other prominent Itsekiri sons, including palace chiefs, who were there, left in disappointment.