WARRI, Delta State — The gates of Aghọfen, the royal palace of the Olu of Warri, have opened to welcome the Utonlila community, which has assumed palace watch duties for the final quarter of the year following the successful completion of its tenure by the Bobi community.
The transition was marked by the 19th edition of Ghighó Aghọfen, the traditional change-of-palace-guard ceremony instituted by His Majesty, Ogiamẹ Atuwatsé III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, as part of efforts to preserve the enduring traditions and strengthen the relationship between the throne and the various communities of the Warri Kingdom.
The colourful ceremony saw members of the Utonlila community make a grand entrance into the palace, where they entertained His Majesty and distinguished guests with a series of beautifully choreographed traditional dances.
The performances showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Iwẹrẹ people and the traditions handed down from one generation to another.
Adding further colour to the occasion were cultural presentations by groups representing other tribes resident in Warri. Their participation underscored the cultural diversity, hospitality and longstanding spirit of peaceful coexistence within the kingdom.
The ceremony ended with a message from the throne, delivered on behalf of His Majesty by Òjòyè Brown Mene, the Ogwaolusan of Warri.
In his message, the Olu of Warri expressed appreciation to the Bobi community for its successful completion of the palace watch duty.
His Majesty particularly acknowledged the significance of the community’s tenure, noting that Bobi was on duty during the recently concluded 5th Coronation Anniversary celebrations.
The Olu subsequently welcomed the Utonlila community and commended its impressive turnout and commitment to the responsibility entrusted to it.
His Majesty prayed for the new watch period to be characterised by peace, blessings, unity, prosperity and remarkable progress, both for the Utonlila community and all its sons and daughters.
The Ghighó Aghọfen ceremony continues to serve as an important cultural institution within the Warri Kingdom, bringing communities together in service to the throne while celebrating the kingdom’s rich heritage and communal bonds.
