Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Sunday joined the newly crowned Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwaste lll for a special thanksgiving service in Warri.

Ex- Delta Governors Chief James Ibori and Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, Deputy Governor, Kingsley Otuaro, Delta South Senator, James Manager and House member, Ndudi Elumelu, were also among dignitaries who graced the thanksgiving service of the youngest ever Olu of Warri.

The ceremony, which attracted thousands of Itsekiri, held at the Olu’s palace, Aghofen in Ajamimogha, Warri South, Delta State.

Ogiame Atuwaste lll was crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri at the ancestral abode of the Itsekiris in Ode-Itsekiri, at the weekend.

His wife, Olori Atuwaste lll and Queen mother Iye-Olu members of the Ginuwa I Ruling House, as well as traditional chiefs of the kingdom were present.

Former President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, Apostle Tomi Arayomi, Rev. Sam Aboyeji, Bishop Bawo Otone and Craig Omorotionwan were among officiating clerics at the service.

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Delta Speaker Sheriff Oborevwori and several traditional rulers also graced the occasion.

Some indigenes of Itsekiri nation, who spoke with The Nation, stated that with Ogiame Atuwaste lll as Olu, Itsekiri nation is poised for transformation.

“If you listened to Ogiame yesterday (Saturday) you will know that it is forward ever for Warri kingdom.

” I have no doubt on my mind that his reign will bring peace and many more development to our area,” a lady identified as Alero Sunday said.

Another local, who gave his name simply as Itse, noted: “Our king knows what he wants, he knows what needs to be done and I see him as one who would work towards the set goals. We thank God for this time. I believe it is the right time for him to ascend the throne.”