The Ovie of Oyede kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Engr. Sir Goodnews Goodman Agbi, PhD (Athuaro I), has expressed profound appreciation to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, following his confirmation as the first Ovie of Oyede Kingdom.
The monarch described the approval by the Delta State Executive Council as a historic milestone that ushers in a new era of traditional leadership for the Oyede Kingdom.
In a statement made available to journalists, HRM Agbi said the governor’s approval marks a watershed in the history of the kingdom, noting that it officially validates the transition from the Odiologbo system of rulership to the Ovie institution.
“On behalf of myself, the Oyede Traditional Council, our revered ruling houses and the entire people of Oyede Kingdom, I express my profound and joyful appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for graciously approving and confirming my appointment as the Ovie of Oyede Kingdom.
“This is a glorious milestone for our people as we boldly transition into a new era of Ovie rulership. I sincerely thank Your Excellency for your swift consideration and decisive confirmation, recognising that this historic transition was conceived and pursued with the best interests of our people at heart,” the monarch stated.
HRM Agbi also acknowledged the role of the immediate past governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for approving the 2020 Gazette that laid the legal foundation for the kingdom’s transition from the Odiologbo rulership to the Ovie institution.
It was learned that the approval came while the incumbent governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, was serving as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
The monarch assured the state government of the kingdom’s commitment to supporting policies and programmes aimed at promoting peace, security and sustainable development.
“As we eagerly await the official presentation of the Staff of Office, I wish to assure Your Excellency that the Oyede Kingdom is ready to work closely with your administration at both the state and local government levels to advance sustainable development, strengthen peace and guarantee the security of our people,” he added.
The confirmation of HRM Goodnews Goodman Agbi as the pioneer Ovie of Oyede Kingdom is widely regarded as a landmark development in the traditional history of the kingdom, signalling the commencement of a new royal era for its people.
