The Okotomu Community Elders’ Council has appealed to the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to provide a concrete jetty at the Eye-Itsekirila Waterside and assist in the erection of a statue honoring the man called Itsekiri in Okotomu Community, emphasizing that he is the foundation upon which the Warri Kingdom stands.
The appeal was made on Saturday, March 15, by the Onukuteh/Chairman of the Okotomu Community Elders’ Council, Pa (Lawyer) D.S.T.O. Pessu, during the Olu of Warri’s Royal visit to Okotomu Community. The revered monarch was warmly received and reportedly blessed the land and its people.
Speaking through the Council Secretary, Dcn. O. D. Akambe, Pa Pessu expressed gratitude for the monarch’s continued support and leadership, particularly in fostering peace, prosperity, and development in the region. He acknowledged the Olu’s contributions towards Okotomu Community Day celebrations in 2023 and 2024, as well as his empowerment programs for the people.
Key Requests from Okotomu Elders
The elders outlined several pressing concerns and sought the Olu’s intervention on the following:
1. Provision of a Concrete Jetty at Eye-Itsekirila Waterside: The community lacks a functional jetty for the efficient movement of people and goods, making it difficult for residents and traders to access the waterways.
2. Erection of the Itsekiri Statue: The elders emphasized the need for a monumental statue of the man called Itsekiri, recognizing him as the fulcrum of the Warri Kingdom. They proposed that the statue be erected at the exact location where Olu Ijijen first set foot in Okotomu, before being crowned as Olu Ogbowuru by the Itsekiri people.
3. Issuance of Local Government Certificate of Origin: The elders called for Okotomu Community to be officially recognized as part of Warri South Local Government Area for certificate issuance. They lamented that currently, Okotomu indigenes must indicate Ode-Itsekiri on official forms to obtain their LGA Certificate of Origin.
4. Recognition as a Host Community: Despite being an oil-bearing community, Okotomu faces neglect in terms of recognition and empowerment from organizations operating within its territory, such as DESOPADEC, Setraco, and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). The elders urged the Olu to intervene so that Okotomu receives its rightful share of corporate social responsibility and development projects.
5. Correction of Okotomu Community Signboard: The council requested that the community signboard, previously approved by the Olu, be redesigned to accurately reflect the true identity of Okotomu Community.
Commitment to Warri Kingdom’s Growth
The elders reaffirmed their dedication to collaborating with the Olu’s leadership in promoting the growth and prosperity of both Okotomu Community and the Warri Kingdom. They expressed hope that their requests would receive favorable consideration, ensuring a fruitful and progressive reign for the Olu of Warri.
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