The Paramount Ruler of Idjerhe Kingdom, His Majesty King Monday Arthur Whiskey Udurhie I, on Thursday led a high powered delegation of the Idjerhe (Ijere) Kingdom in Delta State to pay a historic visit to the Natural Father of the Yoruba race and Permanent Chairman of the Southern Traditional Council of Nigeria, Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, at his Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife.
Speaking during the royal visit, King Udurhie I stressed that traditional institutions remain the source and foundation of societal values and governance, adding that royal heritage must be preserved for future generations. He commended the Ooni for his steadfast commitment to sustaining cultural traditions and fostering unity across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
“During the campaigns that brought in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we in the South-South played a major role in his emergence. This demonstrates that our region is solidly behind Mr. President. We have continued to enhance crude oil and gas production in support of national development, but in return, we desire special and commensurate attention in appointments and infrastructure. We need synergy with the Federal Government to achieve this,” King Udurhie I stated.
The monarch expressed optimism that, with Ooni’s influential position, greater collaboration among traditional rulers in Southern Nigeria can drive progress in the Niger Delta. “We proudly say our son is there; he needs our support and encouragement. On behalf of the peace-loving sons and daughters of Idjerhe Kingdom, including our 14 eminent professors nationwide, I thank you for this rare privilege to connect with our ancestral roots,” he said.
In his response, the Ooni described King Udurhie I as an amiable, charismatic, and highly educated royal father who has placed Idjerhe Kingdom on the global map through visionary leadership. “I am super excited to host my brother King from Idjerhe Kingdom. Seeing him from afar, I could feel the connection. Today, you have made my day and won my heart,” Ooni Adeyeye remarked.
The Ooni revealed that he had looked forward to the visit with great anticipation, noting that King Udurhie’s dedication and accomplishments deserved honour and celebration. “Because you have honoured me with this visit, I will personally deliver your message to Mr. President,” the Ooni assured.
The historic meeting concluded with a royal dinner at the palace dining hall, after which the delegation was hosted at the Oduduwa Heritage House for a stage play titled Ijaye, an educative Yoruba cultural drama performed by Theatre Arts students of Obafemi Awolowo University under the Akins Group.
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