By WARRI Kingdom was awash with colour, culture and deep symbolism as it marked a historic and joyful day during the 16th edition of Ghighò Aghòfen — the revered Change of Palace Watch ceremony.
Ogiame Atuwatse III and his Olori
Presiding over the grand occasion was His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, who formally installed new Ojoye (Chiefs), reaffirming the kingdom’s enduring values of tradition, unity and inclusiveness.
The ceremony, held at the Aghòfen (Palace), attracted a distinguished audience comprising Royal Fathers, government officials, eminent personalities, and sons and daughters of Iwere land from far and near.
The atmosphere reflected the deep cultural pride of the Warri people and the harmony that continues to define the ancient kingdom.
Ogiame Atuwatse III and Traditional Rulers from other kingdoms at the palace
Chieftaincy conferments were carried out in two significant phases. First was the elevation of notable sons of Iwere land, recognised for their service and commitment to the kingdom.
They were installed as Ojoyes, taking on responsibilities as custodians of culture and advisers to the throne.
Those honoured included Ojoye Okpeyor John Daje (Ogidinagba ti Warri), Ojoye Yomere Sony (Akpasire ti Warri), Ojoye Reyeneju Daniel (Ojogun ti Warri) and Ojoye Mone Mayomi (Ugboleghe ti Warri).
Cultural performance
In a powerful demonstration of inclusiveness, His Majesty also inducted a new set of Ambassage Chiefs — respected individuals from non-Itsekiri ethnic groups who have made meaningful contributions to the growth and prosperity of Warri.
Homage paying to the Olu
Among them were Ojoye Anthony Akoji (Arun Igala ti Warri), Ojoye Oluwasoji Akinwale (Arun Oroke ti Warri), Ojoye Clauduis Ugbo (Udo-mereyon ti Warri), Ojoye Ezekiel Oyetakin (Arun Ilaje ti Warri), Ojoye Steven Amalili (Arun Otsowo ti Warri) and Ojoye Okwudili Ugochukwu (Arun Igbo ti Warri).
The event also marked the formal transition of Palace Watch duties, as His Majesty welcomed Olobe Community to commence its quarter of service at the Aghòfen.
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This followed vibrant cultural performances by both the outgoing Orere Uluba community and the incoming Olobe community, accompanied by their respective Ojoyes, adding rhythm, colour and ancestral pride to the ceremony.
Crowd at the palace
Coinciding with the Christmas season, the celebration took on a deeper spiritual tone. His Majesty Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, CFR, alongside Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, extended warm Christmas greetings and heartfelt goodwill to all sons and daughters of Iwere land, at home and in the diaspora.
Ogiame Atuwatse III in warm handshake with another traditional ruler
They expressed prayers for peace, renewed hope, love and abundant blessings, calling on the light of Christ to shine in every household during the festive season and beyond.
Ogiame Atuwatse II in a warm handshake with another traditional ruler
The 2025 Ghighò Aghòfen once again underscored Warri Kingdom’s unique blend of tradition and modern harmony — a living testament to unity in diversity and the enduring strength of its cultural heritage.
