By Samuel Ogude
The Palace of the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom in Uvwie Local Government Area Delta State, His Royal Majesty Dr. Emmanuel E. Sideso JP OON Abe I, was recently, agog as His Royal Majesty’s Autobiography: “Odyssey of Royalty.” was launched.
In a brief remark, President Bola Tinubu acknowledged the positive contributions of the reverend Uvwie Monarch in fostering peace and development in his kingdom and Delta State in particular and the country at large. President Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo highlighted the King’s collaboration with Federal authorities to enhance local governance. President Tinubu who emphasized the importance of sustaining peace across the Nation and expressed pride in the Ovie’s leadership just as he wished him (Monarch) continued good health and longevity.
On his part, Delta State Governor, Rt Hon.Sheriff Oborevwori said, the book launched was a celebration of the Monarch’s legacy and his enlightened leadership, which, according to him, has promoted stability and development in the area. He said the biography is a source of inspiration for future leaders as it has aligned with his administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda with the values of the Uvie’s leadership.
Governor Oborevwori who was represented by Chief of Staff, Government House, Prince Johnson Eridjo said, the biography is a gift to Uvwie Kingdom and Delta State in particular and Nigeria at large as it underscores the message that true royalty is characterized by service to humanity and integrity. In his keynote address, the Uvwie Monarch, HRM Dr Emmanuel Sideso JP OON, Abe I, expressed gratitude to the entire people of Uvwie Kingdom for their support throughout his 18-year reign and emphasized the significance of documentation of personal histories. As the Monarch reflects on his journey and the transformation of Uvwie Kingdom, he said:
“Until the lion tells his side of the story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter,” The Royal Father therefore sued for National unity and advocates for a constitution that would promote justice just as he urged traditional rulers to work together for the upliftment of the society, expressing confidence that nation’s future would be bright with faith in God and determination to move to the next level.
The Chief Launcher of the book, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo a.k.a Tompolo charged the people to support the Monarch’s reign as his 18 years on the throne of his fore bears have significantly transformed the Kingdom. High Chief Ekpemupolo who was represented by Hon. Silver Ofughara said the Uvwie Monarch has transformed the Kingdom to a greater height.
Not left out is the Chairman, National Mega Summit of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Dr Umaru Mohamed Atiku, and Emir of Ako. He commended the Ovie of Uvwie for attracting the needed development to his Kingdom just as he praised his leadership qualities during his tenure as Chairman of the group. The Chairman, Uvwie Local Government Area, Chief Anthony Ofoni- the book reviewer, Professor Joe Agbugu( SAN), a veteran Journalist ,Chief Omafume Amurun and others also praised the Ovie’s commitment to education especially his provision of scholarships to over two thousand students in Uvwie Kingdom.
They therefore encouraged Uvwie people and friends of the Kingdom to get a copy of the book” Odyssey of Royalty”: The reign of Abe 1, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom that reveals the life of the Monarch, his family and his reign. The event celebrated not just the milestones of the Ovie but the collective efforts of the Uvwie people in achieving progress. The epoch- making event was graced by dignitaries including the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, members of the National and State Assemblies, Traditional Rulers across the country, among others.