‘Don’t shun experience of elders’ — Obasanjo advises Olu of Warri

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised Tsola Emiko, the newly-crowned Olu of Warri, to tap from the experience of the elders.

The 37-year-old Emiko was crowned on Saturday in Warri, Delta state.

At the coronation thanksgiving on Sunday, the former president urged the new monarch to unite all Itsekiris and begin the process of healing the Warri Kingdom.

Obasanjo prayed for a peaceful and long reign of the monarch and advised him to always stay very close to God in all his dealings.

“Two things must guide you: one, do not shun the experience and advice of elders, it is useful. Experience is wisdom, make use of the experience of people around you. Secondly, be very close to God,” he said.

“I do not want to see the four Olu, I have witnessed three being crowned in my lifetime.

“Congratulations. May your reign be long, peaceful, bring unity and prosperity to Itsekiri. May your reign contribute to the development, unity, and prosperity of Nigeria.”

Obasanjo promised not to be far from the king, adding that “if there is any reason to summon me, use your majestic power to do so”.

Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta, also urged the monarch to “extend the olive branch to any aggrieved Itsekiri”.

“I am aware a lot of healing process is ongoing. It is time for healing; ensure the entirety of the kingdom comes together,” he said.

“Whether stubborn or not, extend the olive branch to them. You have a lot of work to do in Nigeria.

“We cannot afford any distraction at home, so that the larger nation will have your presence in the nation-building.

“Your reign will truly bring peace and development. God has prepared you for this time. God’s presence be with you.”