A renewed move for peace in Warri has gained momentum, with traditional rulers from the area taking the lead in promoting harmony and coexistence. The Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, and other kings have been holding meetings aimed at peacebuilding and fostering a culture of oneness in the city. This development is a far cry from the years of bitterness and acrimony that characterized the area, resulting in violence, death, and destruction.
The Olu of Warri Kingdom recently launched the Warri Unity Games, an initiative aimed at promoting peace and unity among the various ethnic groups in the area. Speaking at the event, the Olu emphasized the need for the people of Warri to rise above their past hurts and differences, and work towards a collective destiny. He commended the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, HRM Ataneru Igbi II, for his efforts in promoting peace and harmony in the area.
The Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, HRM Owhotemu II, and the Olu of Warri Kingdom held a private meeting in Abuja on September 17, where they discussed issues relating to peace and peaceful relations between their respective kingdoms and subjects. The meeting, which was a significant step towards promoting peace and stability in the area, resulted in a commitment by both monarchs to work together to foster an atmosphere of peace and cooperation among the various communities and peoples of Warri.
The traditional rulers have also been engaging with other stakeholders in the area, including the Amakosu of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom, and the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom. These engagements have been warmly received by stakeholders and indigenes of Warri, who are hopeful that they will herald a new template of cooperation, peace, and progress for the indigenous tribes and residents. Olorogun Bernard Okumagba, a former Delta State Commissioner for Finance, has commended the efforts of the traditional rulers, saying that peace and brotherliness amongst all ethnic nationalities in Warri Federal Constituency will ensure that all energies are devoted to bringing development to Warri and enhancing the livelihoods of all people in the area.
The peacebuilding initiative undertaken by the traditional rulers has been welcomed by most observers, who agree that this peaceful atmosphere needs to be embraced and sustained by the various governments and all stakeholders. Warri has suffered a lot from unnecessary ethnic clashes and tensions over the years, resulting in loss of lives and property, and a decline in the city's investment allure. The city needs new thinking to grow again, and peacebuilding is definitely a crucial step in that direction.
The traditional rulers have reaffirmed that the interests of peace, stability, and the wellbeing of the people of Warri South remain a shared responsibility, requiring the cooperation of traditional institutions, community leaders, and residents alike. They have called on all stakeholders and community leaders to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and ensuring that differences are addressed through dialogue and constructive engagement.
As the peacebuilding initiative continues to gain momentum, there is hope that Warri will experience a new era of peace and harmony. The city's image as a turbulent city has done more harm to its prospects, and it is time for a change. With the traditional rulers leading the way, there is optimism that the people of Warri will work together to attract infrastructure projects and investments, and ensure gainful employment and thriving businesses for all.
Key points
- Traditional rulers in Warri, Nigeria, have launched a fresh initiative for peace and harmony, marking a significant departure from years of ethnic tensions and violence.
- The Olu of Warri Kingdom has launched the Warri Unity Games, an initiative aimed at promoting peace and unity among the various ethnic groups in the area.
- The traditional rulers have committed to working together to foster an atmosphere of peace and cooperation among the various communities and peoples of Warri.
