By Dan Gumm

WARRI—ACTIVITIES to commemorate the first Coronation Anniversary of the 20th Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Ikenwoli, have begun. The event is expected to climax on December 12, 2016.

Countdown to the D-day, the Palace of HRM, Ogiame Ikenwoli, and all Itsekiri communities are busy with cultural activities in preparation to make the event memorable.

To set the ball rolling, an 11-man Central Working Committee for the first Coronation Anniversary of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli, has been inaugurated by the Olu himself, at his palace.

The committee, is chaired by the member representing Itsekiri ethnic nationality on the Board of DESOPADEC, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi and Mr. Toju Emiko as Secretary.
Other members of the committee include: Chief Francis Omatseye, Chief Billy Besigiwa, Chief Priest Udueyin, Prince Yemi Emiko, Mr. Alfred Apoh, Alex Eyengho, Mrs. Helen Bobmanuel and President of Itsekiri National Youth Council, INYC, Esimaje Awani.

The Olu urged the committee to take its assignment with all the seriousness it deserves since it is going to be the first anniversary of his coronation as the 20th Olu of Warri Kingdom.

The December 12 event, will be preceded with the conferment of chieftaincy titles to about 21 distinguished Itsekiri, as His Majesty, has already commenced a tour of Itsekiri communities with a visit to Abigborodo, as part of events that will lead to the colourful celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Itsekiri people.

Usually, the highlights of the event will be traditional homage paying, cultural displays, traditional dances, fashion parade and thanksgiving service in the various churches in Warri Kingdom, among other activities.