By Sunday Apah
His Royal Majesty, Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, has called on the Federal Government to reassess and reinforce Nigeria’s security systems in order to combat the increasing wave of insecurity prevalent across the nation.
The monarch made this appeal during a ceremony held at his palace in Otu-Ughievwen, Ughelli South Local Government Area, where he bestowed chieftaincy titles on three distinguished sons and a daughter of the kingdom.
At the event, Owahwa II conferred the title of Arhiator of Ughievwen Kingdom on Ogbere Ameke Okpeko, the title of Esiemonoja of Ughievwen Kingdom on his wife, and the title of Uqwankah of Ughievwen Kingdom on Chief Ejiro Hope Ayomide.
The Okobaro expressed serious concern about the surge in kidnappings, killings, and various acts of banditry across the country, highlighting these as major obstacles to national growth and development.
He urged the Federal Government and security agencies to thoroughly investigate the underlying causes of these violent incidents and to equip security personnel adequately to effectively curb the escalating insecurity.
Also, the monarch encouraged residents of Ughievwen Kingdom to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to the relevant security authorities.
Speaking to the newly installed titleholders, Owahwa II advised them to use their positions to promote peace, support community initiatives, and actively contribute to the kingdom’s overall progress.
In a separate interview, the Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun Matthew Shaire, and the Otota of Owahwa Sub-clan, Olorogun David Uhawha, emphasized that the Ughievwen chieftaincy is reserved for deserving sons and daughters of the kingdom.
They urged the new chiefs to uphold the dignity and honor associated with the title.
The newly appointed chiefs expressed their appreciation to the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, pledging to use the honor as motivation to further serve the community’s development.
The event was enlivened by a performance from the Udje dancers of Ughievwen Kingdom, adding colour and cultural vibrancy to the occasion.
