President Bola Tinubu has stressed the imperative of sustaining peace and national unity as a foundation for Nigeria’s growth, declaring that stability remains the anchor of development.
The President spoke at the unveiling of the autobiography of the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, Emmanuel Sideso, titled “Odyssey of Royalty,” held at the monarch’s palace in Effurun GRA, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, commended the monarch for his consistent role in fostering peace, stability and grassroots development.
He acknowledged the royal father’s collaboration with federal authorities in strengthening local governance and promoting harmonious coexistence in the region.
“The Ovie’s leadership exemplifies service, wisdom and dedication to his people. We are proud of his contributions to national unity and development,” the President said, wishing the monarch continued health and longevity.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, described the book launch as a celebration of legacy and enlightened leadership, noting that the monarch’s 18-year reign has been marked by stability and visible transformation.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Eridjo, the governor said the biography was a gift not only to Uvwie Kingdom but to Delta State and Nigeria at large.
He said the values reflected in the monarch’s life — service, integrity and commitment to development — align with his administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda.
In an emotional keynote address, HRM Sideso thanked the people of Uvwie for their steadfast support throughout his reign, stressing the importance of documenting personal and communal history.
“Until the lion tells his side of the story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter,” he said, reflecting on his journey and the transformation of Uvwie Kingdom.
The royal father called for national unity and constitutional reforms that promote justice and fairness, urging traditional rulers to work collectively for societal upliftment.
Chief launcher, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, who was represented by Hon. Silver Ofughara, urged continued support for the monarch, stating that his 18-year reign has significantly elevated the kingdom.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the National Mega Summit of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria and Emir of Ako, Dr. Umaru Mohamed Atiku, commended the Ovie for attracting development and for his leadership during his tenure as chairman of the body.
Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Chief Anthony Ofoni, book reviewer Professor Joe Agbugu, SAN, veteran journalist Chief Omafume Amurun and others lauded the monarch’s commitment to education, citing scholarships awarded to over 2,000 students in the kingdom.
They encouraged the public to obtain copies of “Odyssey of Royalty: The Reign of Abe I,” which chronicles the monarch’s life, family and transformative reign.
The colourful ceremony drew dignitaries from across the country, including members of the National and State Assemblies and an array of traditional rulers, marking not just the unveiling of a book, but a celebration of legacy, unity and collective progress in Uvwie Kingdom.
