*Says family background puts him in good stead to serve itsekiris with dignity

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated the new Olu of Warri, Omo Oba, Tsola Emiko noting that his family background has placed him in good stead to serve theItsekiri people with dignity and diligence.

In a congratulatory message personally signed and dated July 23, 2021, the former President prayed for wisdom and courage for Omo Oba Emiko to defend the rich legacy that comes with the responsibility of being the Olu of Warri kingdom.

The letter read: “I congratulate you on your coronation as the 21th Olu of Warri. Your ascension to the throne of your forefathers comes at a time when our nation is in need of vibrant and transformational leadership owing to the different challenges we are facing as a people.

“It is my hope that you will use the opportunity provided by this divinely ordained appointment to contribute your quota to the assignment of national development,” he said.

The Itsekiri Kingdom, Dr. Jonathan stated, was renowned for rich and colorful history, one that has lasted for hundreds of years, adding, “The royal stool to which you have been found worthy is a national treasure, an emblem of patriotism, that has produced notable leaders in our country.”

Jonathan recalled that as President, he met with his father during his reign as the 19th Olu of Warri and expressed confidence that his family background placed him in good stead to serve his people with dignity and diligence.

“Leadership is sometimes a difficult cocktail of hard choices and personal sacrifice. I pray the good Lord provides you with the wisdom and courage to defend the rich legacy that comes with the responsibility of being the Olu of Warri Kingdom.

“May your reign be long and fruitful and may it signal a new era of great prosperity for your people,” he concluded.