The ancient Ijaw community of Gelegele-Gbene in Ovia North Local Government Area of Edo State was alive with celebration on Saturday as Alaowei Benson Ogouyinbo was installed as the 47th Amaokosuwei, the community’s eldest male and traditional leader.
The event was marked by vibrant cultural displays and festive splendor.
The installation ceremony took place at the community’s central gathering area, with High Chief Alabo Nengi James, 2nd Vice Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), presiding as Chairman of the occasion.
The ceremony saw the presence of numerous dignitaries, including Chief Robinson Ogunkoru, Western Zone Chairman of INC, and HRM Godwin Ogouyinbo, Alagbabunafa III, representing the Pere of Olodiama.
In his address, Chief Alabo Nengi James expressed profound gratitude and reinforced the community’s commitment to preserving Ijaw culture. “I want to thank the people of Gelegele for their unwavering commitment to preserving Ijaw culture and protecting Gelegele land. Our land is a divine inheritance, and no one can take it from us. The Ijaw nation stands firmly with Gelegele, affirming that Gelegele’s heritage is sacred and protected,” he said.
The Amaokosuwei is the most elderly male indigene in the Ijaw community, supported by various traditional titles including Amaokosu Gboluwei, Ama Nanawei, Ama Bawei, Ama Diwei, Ikasi-Tebewei, Ogun Bolowei, Toru-Diwei, and Eru Kariwei. The Gelegele community is under the traditional influence of the Pere of Olodiama Kingdom, to whom they traditionally pay homage.
Notable personalities at the event included Sir Dr. BJ Braie, Chairman, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Edo State, Hon. Joel Bisina, PhD, former Commissioner for Special Duties in Delta State, and Barrister Toru-ibe Toru-Ibe Agagha, Legal Adviser to INC Edo State. Chief Honest Adodo, General Asupa, and their entourages also graced the occasion.
Comrade Olu-Derimon Omaghomi, Chairman of the Community, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and participation. “Today’s installation of Alaowei Benson Ogouyinbo as the 47th Amaokosuwei is a momentous occasion for Gelegele-Gbene. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this event a success, from the Olodiama communities and their leaders to the youth and women of Gelegele. Your presence and support have truly made this day memorable. We also appreciate Engr. Pius Donyegha, Chairman and CEO of Pydon Nig Ltd, APT Logistics, and Tamaraemi Mega Farms, for his significant contributions and the continued support from our distinguished guests,” he stated.
The ceremony was enlivened by cultural performances and traditional masquerade displays, adding to the day’s joyous atmosphere. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude towards the community’s leaders, elders, and the National President of INC Worldwide, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, for their unwavering support.
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