*Dedication of New Palace Chapel Cum Birthday Anniversary
•••As Bayelsa State Deputy Gov. Sen. Ewhrudjakpo pour encomium on the monarch

By Matthias Ogbagah

UGHELLI – The ancient city of Great Ughelli kingdom, Ughelli north local government area of Delta State was on Sunday, April 20, 2025, pop with wide jubilation as the monarch of the kingdom, HRM Evang. (Dr). Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III JP marked his 33rd coronation anniversary cum the dedication of the completed ultramodern palace and royal palace chapel.

The dedication of the ultramodern palace, royal palace chapel cum the 33rd coronation anniversary, and birthday ceremony was officiated by the Archbishop of Bendel Province and Bishop of Ughelli Diocese (Anglican Communion), Most Rt. Revd. Cyril Odiboroghene Odutemu JP+.

Performing the dedication of the gigantic ultramodern palace and newly built royal palace chapel, the Archbishop lauded the monarch for his peaceful and impactful reign in the Ughelli kingdom and Nigeria as a whole.

In his homily, the Archbishop described the Ovie (monarch) as a man of wisdom, peace, and unwavering faith, offering fervent prayers for continued prosperity and divine guidance upon the Ughelli Kingdom.

“This is more than just the dedication of structures; it is a celebration of divine leadership, cultural continuity, and enduring peace under a visionary king,” Archbishop Odutemu said.

“May this palace and chapel remain symbols of unity and divine favour.”
Delivering a goodwill message, the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo who was represented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Komuko Akari Kharin pointed at his admiration for the Ughelli monarch’s exemplary leadership.

“His Royal Majesty has been a symbol of unity and strength, not just for Ughelli but for the entire region. On behalf of the Bayelsa State Government, I extend our warm congratulations on this great milestone and pray for more impactful years of peace, growth, and divine wisdom on the throne”.

Also, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, in his remarks, commended the monarch’s reign, calling the palace a physical manifestation of vision, faith, and determination.

The event featured vibrant cultural performances, praise and worship, goodwill messages, and an air of celebration.

In his remarks during a chat with journalists, HRM Oharisi III, expressed deep gratitude to God and the people of Ughelli for their steadfast support over the past three decades.

“One thing is to be successful; another is to be able to gather people,” Ovie said.
“Some try and cannot, but in my case, God stood by me, and all my people stood by me. My fellow traditional rulers also stood by me. And today, we celebrate not just my 33 years on the throne, but also the completion of a vision long in the making.”

The monarch spoke passionately about the journey toward completing the palace and chapel, highlighting the sacrifices and perseverance put into the project.
While drawing inspiration from the significance of Easter, he emphasized that the choice of date April 20th, was divinely orchestrated.

“Many advised me to postpone the celebration, but I said no, April 20th is the day I was crowned. The fact that it falls on Easter Sunday this year is God’s design, not mine,” he said.
Known for his spiritual devotion, the Ovie also used the occasion to offer prayers and wise counsel to his people. He urged them to embrace peace, honesty, and hard work.

“Even if you lack, I pray God will bless the works of your hands. Do not covet another’s property. May whatever you do prosper. I wish you all prosperity, peace, and long life in Jesus’ name,” he prayed.
The monarch also offered words of hope and thanksgiving: “We have seen sickness, and it has passed. Now, we welcome success. With God, all things are possible”.

On his part, the Otota of Greate Ughelli kingdom, Olorogun Peter Tobore Akpofure said, “Today is a historic event in the annal of Ughelli as a kingdom, our king is blessed by God, he called to rule over the people of Ughelli kingdom as God manifest His wisdom and glory in him, today we are celebrating him”.

The historic event in the annal of the ancient kingdom, the Great Ughelli kingdom, witnessed in attendance who is who Delta State and beyond.

Amongst those present includes the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, represented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Komuko Akari Kharin, the Founder of Word of Life Bible Church, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor respected traditional rulers from across the country, clergy, political leaders, and an enthusiastic gathering of Ughelli sons and daughters.