Erection of statue of the man called Itsekiri, highlights Okotomu Community’s demands to Olu of Warri

The Okotomu Community Elders’ Council, have appealed to the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to provide concrete Jetty at the Eye-Itsekirila Waterside and assist in the erection of statue of the man called Itsekiri in Okotomu Community, saying the man called Itsekiri, is the fulcrum on which Warri Kingdom stands.

Fresh Angle International, understands that the Onukuteh/Chairman, Okotomu Community Elders’ Council, Pa (Lawyer) D.S.T.O. Pessu, made the appeal Saturday March 15, during the Olu of Warri’s Royal visit to Okotomu Community, wherein the revered Monarch reportedly blessed Okotomu Land.

Pa (Lawyer) D.S.T.O. Pessu, whose message was read by the Secretary of Okotomu Community Elders’ Council, Dcn. O. D. Akambe, stressed the need for Okotomu Community to be considered as one of the Communities in Warri South Local Government Area, in the issuance of Local Government Certificate of Origin, by the authorities of Warri South Local Government Council.

He noted in parts: “Today marks a significant milestone in the history of Okotomu, as we gather to receive your royal blessings. Your Majesty's visit is a testament to the strong bond between you who is our father, and our community.

“We are grateful for your leadership and vision which have brought-peace, prosperity and development to-our land. Your Majesty's commitment to the well-being of your people is quite inspiring, and we are proud to be part of your people.

“Your support and quick response to our needs in the recent past cannot be easily forgotten. You supported us immensely during the celebration of our "Okotomu Community Day" maiden edition and the 2nd edition in September, 2023 and September, 2024 respectively, both in cash and in kind.

“Baba, we are grateful for your unrivalled benevolence. We also humbly appreciate you as we are thankful for the empowerment you graciously released to our people as promised. You are really a father indeed 

“As we gather before you today, we humbly request your Royal blessings upon our land. We pray that your blessings will bring us peace, prosperity and protection. Other areas we need your assistance are:

“(I) provision of Concrete Jetty at the Eye-Itsekirila Waterside. Okotomu has no Jetty for easy movement of people and commodities,

“(2) Erection of the statue of our father, the man called Itsekiri, who is the fulcrum on which the Warri Kingdom stands, making Okotomu the foundation of the Kingdom. This Statue which is monumental: should be mounted at the point where Olu Ijijen stepped his foot into Okotomu Land, before he was installed Olu Ogbowuru by Itsekiri,

“(3) Okotomu Community should be considered as one of the Communities in Warri South Local Government Area in the issuance of L.G.A Certificate of Origin by the authorities of the Council. Presently, the Council does not approve Certificate of Origin to Okotomu indigenes, unless they fill Ode-Itsekiri in their forms,

“(4) Also, the Okotomu people are always being sidelined on issues of giving recognition and empowerment to host communities, even though we are oil- bearing community. Organizations like DESOPADEC, Setraco, NPA etc to mention but a few, they all operate on our land, yet they treat us with ignominy and rebuff.

“(5) Lastly, we are sincerely appealing that our signboard approved by Your Majesty and mounted at Okotomu should be re-designed to reflect the true Identity of Okotomu Community.

“Your Majesty, we are truly committed to collaborate with your leadership to promote the welfare and development of the Warri Kingdom and our Community.

“We believe that this will be proactive and fruitful, which will bring glory to your reign.”

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