TRIBUTES AS OVIE OF OGHARA IS LAID TO REST

By Yemie Adeoye
ENCOMIUM has continued to pour in as late Oreki II, Ovie of Oghara Kingdom in Delta State, is laid to rest.

Oghara indigenes have commenced the burial process of the late monarch even as a large section of traditional rulers in the state have described the Ovie as a man who lived a fulfilled life and was an exemplary ruler.

The remarks were made at his palace when no fewer than 25 traditional rulers under the umbrella of Traditional Rulers of Oil and Mineral Producing Communities of Nigeria, TROMPCOM, paid a condolence visit to Oghara traditional council of chiefs on the passing on of their king.

The leader of the delegation, HRM Ogoni-Ogoni-Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom stated that late Oreki was a fulfilled ruler, explaining that it was difficult for any king to beat the record of perfection of the Oghara monarch.

He said: 'Ikwu Oghara made much sacrifices to survive and sustain the kingdom, especially the prevailing peace and development he ushered into Oghara, Ethiope West as well as his involvement in other matters of traditional rulers across the state and his fatherly advices on sensitive state matters.'

The Olomu king noted that late Oreki was notable and popular among other traditional rulers in the state and beyond, especially through his hard work, diligence and commitment to the cause of Oghara kingdom.

He said: 'He was an ambassador of peace in the state and we will remember him for his connection, his sonority, humility and friendliness.

'He never offended anybody and was quick to listen to constructive criticisms and advise from all of us, including his subjects.'

The programme on rites of passage of the monarch had commenced penultimate Monday with an exiting novelty football match between the two Oghara sub-lands. Oghareki and Ogharefe played at the Uherevie primary school ground Oghareki with top dignitaries from the kingdom, members of Oghara traditional council of chiefs and top dignitaries in attendance.

Among other exiting events marking this ceremony was a carnival-like procession by indigenes of Oghara dancing and singing to trumpet sounds along major streets of the town.