Gov Diri Presents Staff Of Office To Ebeni-Ibe VIII Of Atissa Kingdom *Charges traditional rulers to maintain peace, security

*Jonathan Urges King Awala to promote peace, strengthen democracy, upholds rule of law

By Inegbagha Majesty 

The Governor of Bayelsa state, Senator , Senator Douye Diri, on Saturday, presented a staff of office to the Ebeni-Ibe VIII of Atissa Kingdom, HIs Royal Majesty King Victor Diemeze Awala during his formal Coronation ceremony at Bishop Demieari Grammar School in Yenagoa the state capital.

From L-R His Excellency, Dr Peter Akpe, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa state presenting a Staff of Office to the newly coronated Ebeni-Ibe VIII of Atissa Kingdom, HRM King Victor  Diemeze Awala.

The governor reiterated his call on traditional rulers to remain focused on the maintenance of peace, security and stability in their various domains as part of their contribution towards the development of the state.

Governor Diri who spoke through his deputy, Dr Peter Akpe, the Bayelsa Chief Executive acknowledged the critical role traditional rulers play in society as the custodians of culture and tradition, stressing that his administration will continue to hold them in high esteem.

He expressed gratitude to the Chiefs and people of Epie-Atissa for their peaceful disposition, noting that his administration could not have recorded its impressive achievements without their support, especially in the maintenance of peace and security in the state capital.

Dr Peter Akpe 

lThe Governor, who congratulated King Awala on his emergence and successful coronation as a first class traditional ruler, urged him to work hard to justify the love and confidence reposed in him by his people.

While appreciating the Chiefs and people of Atissa Kingdom for recognizing the primacy of the Almighty God in the affairs of men by inviting a renowned clergyman, Bishop David Oyedepo, to crown their monarch, he called on them to sustain their love and support for the new Ebeni-Ibe at all times for continued unity, peace and development of the Kingdom.

His words: "First, we want to appreciate the people of Atissa Kingdom for the support they have been rendering to the state over the years. The peace we are enjoying in the state capital is as a result of the understanding, cooperation and peaceful disposition of the Epie-Atissa people.

"And on today's event, I have seen the involvement of all Atissa sons and daughters, which shows oneness and unity that has culminated to the success of this coronation. We are appreciating you because there is no unity or peace without a price.

"For us as a government, we advocate for the recognition of our traditional institutions because without them most of our traditions and culture, including our language will go into extinction."

In his goodwill message, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan urged the newly coronated King to promote peace that would mentor the younger generation, and guide the Atissa people in a manner that would strengthen democracy and upholds rule of law.

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan 

He reminded the people especially the youth not to see politics as a contest of enemies, but as a process of advancing interest for the common good.

"These interests are not fixed; they evolve over time, even within electoral cycles. This understanding is Key to fostering tolerance, patience, and unity," he stated.

Dr Jonathan who was represented by Chief Tobias James described HRM King Awala's emergence as a testament to the confidence his people have in his leadership qualities, and implored him to lead the Kingdom with wisdom, humility and a sense of purpose.

His words "I am deeply pleased to be part of this special and historic event, not just as a former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but as someone who shares a strong personal bond with the people of Atissa.

The history of our people teaches us something very important: that the Atissa and the Ogbia people are not strangers. We share common roots, culture, and indeed, a common destiny. This connection is not only preserved in history books; it is alive in our relationships, in our shared values, and in the way we continue to stand by one another.

For me, this connection is deeply personal. From my days as Deputy Governor, to Governor, to Vice President, and eventually President of Nigeria, the Atissa people have stood with me. You gave me your trust, your friendship, and your unwavering support. In moments of challenge and in moments of success, you were there. That is something I do not take for granted.

Atissa has shown me genuine, consistent, and enduring love, and for that, I remain sincerely grateful.

Today, as you crown a new king, His Royal Majesty, King Victor Diemeze Awala, FCIM, Ebenibe-Ibe VIII of Atissa Kingdom, Yenagoa, I see a continuation of that enduring spirit of unity, wisdom, and strength that defines your people. Your Majesty, your emergence is not just a personal achievement; it is a reflection of the confidence your people have in your leadership. I have known you over the years as a committed and selfless servant of your people, and I have no doubt that your reign will be long, peaceful, and impactful.

As you ascend the throne of your forefathers, may you always be guided by wisdom, humility, and a deep love for your people.

Your Royal Majesties, distinguished guests, I believe that as custodians of our rich customs and cherished cultural heritage, our traditional rulers occupy a unique and respected place in our society. You are not only symbols of our history and identity, but also moral voices whose influence resonates deeply among the people. 

Today, our nation is confronted with a number of challenges, ranging from issues of security to a political atmosphere that, at times, becomes tense and divisive. In moments such as these, the role of our traditional institutions becomes even more critical. Your words as Royal Majesties, carry weight, and your guidance has the power to calm tensions and promote understanding.

I therefore urge you to continue to play your fatherly role in guiding both our political leaders and our young people. This responsibility is even more significant here in the Kingdom of Atissa, which is situated within the heart of Yenagoa, our state capital.

It is important that we collectively encourage a culture of politics that is anchored on development, inclusiveness, and mutual respect, rather than one driven by bitterness or violence.

We must remind our people, especially the youth, that politics should not be seen as a contest of enemies, but as a process of advancing interests for the common good. These interests are not fixed; they evolve over time, even within electoral cycles. This understanding is key to fostering tolerance, patience, and unity.

Your Royal Majesty, your leadership at this time is not only symbolic, but also deeply consequential. I urge you to continue to promote peace, to mentor the younger generation, and to guide your people in a manner that strengthens our democracy and upholds the rule of law.

To the great people of Atissa, I say thank you once again for your support, your friendship, and your belief in me over the years. Our bond remains strong, and it will continue to endure. May your land continue to prosper. May your people continue to live in peace and unity.

It is my earnest prayer that God Almighty will grant His Royal Majesty wisdom, good health, and the grace to lead with fairness, compassion, and foresight. May this reign bring peace, progress, and prosperity to the Atissa Kingdom, Bayelsa State, and our dear nation," Jonathan maintained.

In their separate remarks, the Chairman, Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo and the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Steve Azaiki, highlighted the contributions of past Ebeni-Ibes, ranging from King Zue of the eighteenth century to King Awala's immediate predecessor, Late King Godwin Igodo.

King Dakolo, who is also the Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, expressed willingness to work closely with King Awala and commended the people of Atissa Kingdom for organizing a hitch-free succession process for their new monarch.

In his remarks, the Eighth Ebeni-Ibe of Atissa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, King Victor Demezie Awala, appreciated the Almighty God, Governor jDouye Diri, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Members of the National and State Assemblies, the Atissa and Epie Councils of Chiefs and everyone who contributed to the success of the coronation ceremony.

HRM King Victor Diemeze Awala 

Highpoints of the ceremony was the presentation of the staff of office by  Governor Diri represented by his deputy, Dr Peter Akpe, as well as the crowning of the Ebeni-Ibe by the General Overseer of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, who was equally represented by Senior Pastor Folorunso Yinka, cultural Dances and traditional wrestling match and Barrister Smooth Ijaw Music Dance Band. 

His citation was presented by Mr Munene Wilson as follows "His Royal Majesty, King Victor Diemeze Awala, Fellow of the Certified Institute of Management of Nigeria, Ebeni-Ibe the 8th of Atissa Kingdom, is a distinguished administrator, seasoned public servant, and revered traditional leader whose emergence reflects the collective will and enduring heritage of the Atissa people.

HRM King Awala

Born of Famgbe Town in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, His Royal Majesty has led a life defined by service, discipline, and unwavering commitment to communal harmony.

He began his career as an Administrative Officer with the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority (NDBDA). From there, he proceeded to the Internal Revenue Division of the Ministry of Finance in the old Rivers State, where he served meritoriously as Principal Inspector of Taxes until his retirement.

Upon his retirement from public service, His Royal Majesty ventured into politics and was appointed Chairman of the Bayelsa State Land Use and Allocation Committee, where he distinguished himself with demonstrable prudence and equity in matters central to identity and development in the State.

In recognition of his sagacity and balanced judgment, he served on various reconciliation committees across the State, where he was entrusted with delicate responsibilities of conciliation and peace-building in situations that might otherwise have escalated into conflict.

At the national leadership level of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), His Royal Majesty served with manifest integrity as National Treasurer, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of Ijaw collective aspirations.

His experience also spans political leadership and strategic coordination, having served as Director-General of a gubernatorial campaign in 2023, as well as participating in the democratic process through his senatorial aspiration in 2007.

A man of intellect and enterprise, His Royal Majesty holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Public Administration and Government from Imo State University, a Diploma in Business English from Manchester, England, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rivers State. He has also attended several professional programmes in New York and Philadelphia in the United States of America, and in Manchester, England.vHe is the Managing Director of Hotel De Sorrentina.

Within the traditional institution, he served with distinction as Ebeni-Okunu (Sub-Clan Head of Atissa Kingdom, Yenagoa), exemplifying leadership rooted in culture, wisdom, and service — qualities that proved instrumental to his emergence as Acting Ebeni-Ibe following the passing of King Igodo.

Today, his unanimous election as the 8th King of Atissa Kingdom stands as a testament to his character, capacity, and the abiding confidence reposed in him by his people. Your Excellencies,  Your Royal Majesties, Royal Highnesses,  Distinguished Guests,  Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is with great honour and profound respect that I present to you  His Royal Majesty, King Victor Diemeze Awala, FCIM,  Ebeni-Ibe the 8th of Atissa Kingdom, Yenagoa,  for your acknowledgement and for the coronation rites proper. May his reign be marked by peace, unity, progress, and enduring prosperity.  

Dignitaries from  all walks of life attended the coronation ceremony including the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon ( High Chief) Abraham Ingobere, represented by the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon Monday-Bubou  Edwin Obolo, the Chairman, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, the Member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Oforji Oboku, Senator Paulker Emmanuel,  and wife of former President of Nigeria, Barrister Ayima Goodluck Jonathan.

Others included the Member representing Yenagoa Constituency One at the state House of Assembly, Chief Ayibanegiyefa Egba, members of the state executive council, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Thompson Amule, the Obeni-Ibe of Epie Kingdom, King Malla Sasime, Architect and Mrs Harcourt Adukeh, King and Queen Amalate Johnny Turner, Chief Reuben Okoya and the Wife of a departed Ebeni-Ibe, Queen Beatrice Frederick Agama.