Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has condoled with the Olomu Royal family, the Olomu Kingdom and Urhobo nation on the passing of their monarch, the Owhorode of Olomu Kingdom, who died at 106.
The late monarch, a Royal Cannon was renowned to be the oldest monarch in the world. He joined his ancestors shortly after celebrating his 106th birth anniversary.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa lauded the renowned monarch for his contributions to the prevalence of peace in the state.
He remarked that since ascending the ancient throne of his forebears, the reign of the monarch, who is also the Chairman of Urhobo Traditional Rulers, had been very beneficial to his kingdom in particular and Urhobo people.
According to the governor, the Olomu monarch had in the past 35 years on the throne contributed immensely to the growth and development of his kingdom and the Urhobo people, and deserves to be celebrated on this special occasion of his birth anniversary.
He remarked that the late monarch was loved by his people and beyond, joined the royal family, Olomu Kingdom at home and in the diaspora and the entire Urhobo nation in celebrating the life and times of the centenarian monarch.
He described him as a bridge-builder, quintessential elder statesman and royal cannon who lived his life in serving his people.
He said “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a great king and world’s oldest monarch, His Royal Majesty, Richard Layieguen, Ovie Ogoni-Oghoro I, OON, the Owhorode of Olomu Kingdom.
“He was a great patriot and leader whose demise leaves a huge leadership vacuum in the Kingdom and among the Urhobos whom he served as Chairman, Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers.
“Under his 35 years reign, the Olomu Kingdom and Urhobo nation recorded massive development and lived peacefully with all neighbours.
“His contributions to the growth and development of Olomu Kingdom, Urhobo nation, Delta and Nigeria will remain very visible in generations to come,’’ he said.
The governor prayed to God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant fortitude to the family to bear the loss.
