Olu of Warri confers awards on Amuka-Pemu, Pinnick, others

As part of the celebrations marking his coronation’s third anniversary, the Olu of Warri Kingdom in Delta State, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse, on Saturday decorated ten notable Itsekiri sons and daughters for their patriotic contributions to the development of Warri Kingdom and Nigeria at large.

The recipients include the Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Sam Amuka-Pemu, and Nigeria’s representative on the FIFA Council, Amaju Pinnick.

Other recipients of the awards include Engr. Felix Omatsola, Ade Mabo, Julius Dediare Rone, Mr Alfred Temile, Dr Ajorutsedere Awosika, Mr Eworitsewarami Justin Wilbert, Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and Misan Harriman.

In his speech, the monarch lauded the recipients, and he personally decorated them with awards one by one on behalf of the Royal Iwere Society.

In his acceptance speech, Amuka-Pemu, popularly known as Uncle Sam, expressed gratitude to the monarch for the honour bestowed upon him.

He attributed the King’s ascension to the throne and his activities over the past three years to divine direction.

“It is God Almighty who gave him the throne. He (God) is also the one directing his steps,” the renowned journalist stated.

Similarly, Pinnick, who could not hide his joy, thanked the monarch for the honour and promised to be more committed to the development of the Itsekiri.
Pinnick said, “Your Majesty, this is a very big honour. I want to thank you.”

Another recipient, Mr Julius Dediare Rone, thanked the monarch for finding him worthy and decorating him with the award, which he described as “very special” to him.

“I have been honoured all over the world, but this is the best award I have ever received,” Rone stated, as he pledged his allegiance to the monarch and the throne, praying that the Olu’s reign will continue to bring development and greater achievements to Warri Kingdom.

On his part, Mr Ade Mabo lauded the monarch and urged the Itsekiri people to rally around the King in the ongoing efforts to further develop Warri Kingdom.