On Saturday, 7th September 2024, His Royal Majesty Ògíamè Atùwàtse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, delivered a monumental speech that has sent waves of excitement and reflection through the Itsekiri community. In a statement filled with passion and a deep sense of responsibility, the revered king called for the Itsekiri people to return to their ancestral lands, particularly in the riverine areas. This historic address, marking the lead-up to his third coronation anniversary, signifies a pivotal moment for the Itsekiris, as they are being urged to reconnect with their roots, rebuild their homes, and contribute to the development of their communities.
At the heart of this royal directive is a plea for the Itsekiri people to return to their ancestral homeland, particularly the capital, Ode Itsekiri. The recently completed bridge that connects Ode Itsekiri to other parts of the kingdom has become more than just an infrastructure project. Ògíamè Atùwàtse III emphasised its symbolic significance, describing it as a clarion call for the Itsekiris to reclaim their heritage and reignite the values that once made them great.
“We cannot keep living in the trauma of the past crisis that drove our people out of their villages,” the king stated, urging his people to stop waiting for ideal conditions or government intervention to develop their lands. He called for unity and determination, invoking the biblical story of the Tower of Babel to illustrate the power of collective will. “Itsekiri, no more excuses. God has given us the land. Now, Ògíamè is charging us to come together in unity and purpose.”
A significant part of the Olu’s message was the call to revive traditional Itsekiri customs, particularly in how burials and marriages are conducted. He urged the return to the practice of nighttime burials in the villages, encouraging families to bring their loved ones back home for their final rest. This move is seen as a way to not only honor ancestral traditions but also breathe life back into the villages that have seen little activity since the crises that displaced many Itsekiris.
Similarly, the Olu encouraged families to hold symbolic marriage ceremonies in their villages. He suggested that these traditional practices could help younger generations reconnect with their roots and inspire pride in their heritage. “Let our children bring their friends from all over the world to see where home truly is,” he said, urging families to ensure that every generation has a reason to return to the villages.
In a progressive move, the Olu of Warri reaffirmed his commitment to inclusivity by addressing the long-standing issue of discrimination within the Itsekiri community. He emphasised that those who identify as Itsekiri through their maternal lineage should be welcomed and integrated into the community without prejudice. This open-armed policy aligns with the king’s vision of unity and collective progress, stressing that the Itsekiri people cannot afford to be divided in their quest for development.
The Olu expressed concern about the shortsightedness of selling ancestral lands to outsiders for short-term gains. Drawing a parallel with the biblical story of Esau, who sold his birthright for immediate satisfaction, the king warned against “eating the seeds that should be planted and nourished for a brighter future.” He urged the Itsekiri people to invest in the long-term development of their communities and to guard against greed and betrayal.
The directive also called for those who return to the villages to be protected from theft and harassment. The Olu emphasized the need for a communal spirit, where everyone looks out for one another as they rebuild their homes and restore the glory of the Itsekiri kingdom.
In a move to further encourage commitment to ancestral lands, the Olu set new standards for Itsekiri leadership. Going forward, elected officials, business leaders, and prominent Itsekiri citizens, both at home and abroad, will be required to have a home in their village. This includes chiefs, community leaders, and successful professionals in industries such as oil and gas, banking, and civil service. The Olu himself has committed to rebuilding Ejo Hall in Bateren and developing land given to Atuwatse II in Ajudaibo, setting the tone for others to follow.
His Majesty’s call to action is more than just a nostalgic return to the past, it is a visionary roadmap for the future of the Itsekiri people. By reconnecting with their ancestral lands, reviving traditions, and fostering unity, the Olu of Warri envisions a renewed Itsekiri kingdom that is not only proud of its heritage but also poised for growth and development. As he prepares to celebrate his first coronation anniversary, Ògíamè Atùwàtse III is leading his people into a new era, where the past and future merge to create a stronger, more unified Itsekiri nation.
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