By Davidson Ogbebor

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated Senator Francis Asekhame Alimikhena on his coronation as the Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom, urging the new traditional ruler to deploy his wealth of experience to promote peace, unity and sustainable development in the kingdom.

Governor Okpebholo gave the charge on Saturday at the coronation ceremony, describing the occasion as historic and significant to the people of Uwanno.

The governor said Alimikhena ascended the throne with decades of experience in public service, including two terms as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Your Highness, you come to this throne with a wealth of experience gained from decades of distinguished public service, including two terms as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“You have served at the highest levels of government, and your experience in leadership, governance and community development will surely be valuable in your new role,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo, however, reminded the new monarch that traditional leadership carries a unique and sacred responsibility, urging him to discharge his duties with wisdom, humility, fairness and inclusiveness.

“However, traditional leadership carries a unique and sacred responsibility. As the Okumagbe, you are now the father of all,” the governor said.

“I therefore urge Your Highness to govern with wisdom, humility, fairness and an open heart. Please carry everyone along and ensure that no son or daughter of Uwanno feels left behind.”

The governor also appealed to the people of Uwanno Kingdom to support and cooperate with the new monarch, urging them to set aside their differences and unite in the interest of the kingdom.

“I also call on every son and daughter of Uwanno to give His Highness their support, cooperation and loyalty. Let us put aside our differences and unite around the common good of Uwanno Kingdom,” he said.

According to the governor, unity remains a fundamental requirement for peace, stability and development.

“The strength of any kingdom lies in the unity of its people. Where there is unity, there is peace, and where there is peace, there is progress,” Okpebholo said.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, congratulated Alimikhena on his coronation and commended his contributions to the development of his people and Edo State.

Oshiomhole prayed for continued divine guidance, wisdom and strength for the new traditional ruler as he assumes his responsibilities as Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom.

In his remarks, the new monarch, Alimikhena, described his coronation as a new beginning and a turning point in the history of Uwanno Kingdom.

“It is a new dawn, an era of peace, love and development,” he said.

The monarch also announced plans to establish the Uwanno Development Fund (UDF) to mobilise resources for the overall development of the kingdom.

He said the initiative would provide a structured platform for attracting resources and supporting development projects across Uwanno.

The coronation brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members and other dignitaries who gathered to celebrate the emergence of Alimikhena as the new Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom.

Issued by:
Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
Edo State Government