In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba on Tuesday, Governor Oborevwori praised the royal father’s commitment to the peace and development of Uvwie Kingdom.
He described the monarch, who is the Chairman of Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council as “one of Nigeria’s outstanding traditional rulers, whose sterling contributions to the peace and development of the Country was worthy of emulation and commendation”.
According to him, the persistent peace efforts of His Majesty have continued to translate into numerous benefits for the State and the kingdom as the gateway to the State’s flourishing oil and gas economy.
He said that throughout the years, Abe I had made significant contributions to the expansion and advancement of the kingdom and Delta State, adding that he remained a prominent figure, a respected ruler, an exemplar, and the guardian of the customs and culture of the Uvwie people.
The Governor also commended the respected royal father for his unwavering support to his administration and for rallying his subjects in that direction.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I warmly congratulate His Royal Majesty, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM. Dr Emmanuel Sideso, OON, Abe I, as he clocks 80 years on December 19.
“As a Government, we have enjoyed your invaluable support in many aspects and it is my belief that you will continue to make your domain a model of peace and unity.
“As Chairman of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, you have consistently led by example as a champion of peace, a model citizen, and a representation of humility and superior leadership.
“The Government and people of Delta appreciate your good counsel at all times and for your contributions towards achieving the M.O.R.E Agenda and vision of our administration,” Oborevwori said.
“I join the good people of Uvwie Kingdom in celebrating a great monarch and wishing him good health, wisdom and strength as he continues to provide leadership for our traditional institutions in Urhobo nation and Uvwie in particular.
“I commend His Majesty for keeping and managing the culture and tradition of the Uvwie people by promoting harmony, socio-cultural cooperation, communal living and peaceful co-existence among the Urhobos and other ethnic groups in the State,” the Governor remarked.
Governor Oborevwori congratulated Sideso on his many accomplishments while in office, especially for forging a new direction in response to civic duties and education, as well as for forging a shared vision for his people.
The Governor expressed gratitude for the royal father’s contributions to the advancement of the State and Country and prayed God to grant him long life and wisdom to preside over the affairs of his domain.