Olu of Warri decorates Uncle Sam, Amaju Pinnick, 8 others marking 3rd coronation anniversary
By ABIRHIRE THOMAS, Asaba
The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has decorated 10 prominent Itsekiri sons and daughters for their contributions to the development of the kingdom and Nigeria in general.
While decorating them with awards on behalf of the Royal Iwere Society as part of activities lined up to mark his third coronation anniversary, the monarch praised the recipients, who included the Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu, popularly known as Uncle Sam, and who expressed gratitude to the Olu of Warri for the honour bestowed upon him.
The former President, Newspapers Publishers Association of Nigeria (NPAN), attributed the Olu’s ascension to the throne and his activities over the past three years to divine direction.
Speaking to press, Uncle Sam said, “It is God Almighty who gave him the throne. He (God) is also the one directing his steps.”
Another honouree, Amaju Pinnick, who Nigeria’s representative on the FIFA Council, thanked the monarch for the honour and promised to be more committed to development of the Itsekiri Land.
“Your Majesty, this is a very big honour. I want to thank you.” Pinnick said.
Also decorated, Mr Ade Mabo lauded the monarch and urged Itsekiri people to rally round him on efforts to further develop the Warri Kingdom.
Another recipient, Mr Julius Dediare Rone, appreciated the monarch for finding him worthy and decorating him with the award, which he described as “very special” to him.
Other recipients of the awards include Engr. Felix Omatsola, Mr Alfred Temile, Dr Ajorutsedere Awosika, Mr Eworitsewarami Justin Wilbert, Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and Misan Harriman.
