The chairman of the Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta state, Friday Ovoke Warri, has challenged the people of Igbide community on the need for a continued sustainable peaceful co-existence with neighbouring communities.
Warri who threw the challenge on Friday at Owodokpokpo when he made an appearance at the opening of the Urie Fishing Festival in Owodokokpo community in the Igbide kingdom, promised that his administration shall work out modalities to make the fishing festival an affair of the local government council aimed at showcasing cultural values to attract more participants and spectators.
The council chairman emphasised the importance of peace in driving development and progress within the community, stating that his administration has been focused on revitalising hope and addressing rural decay challenges in Isoko South, as outlined in his renewal agenda.
Warri stated that he was pleased to join other citizens of Isoko South in witnessing the Urie fishing festival, notwithstanding his origin as an Okpolo-Enwhe son.
The chairman specifically advised the royal families to prioritise peace, noting that only one person can be crowned a king. This initiative aims to promote the festival’s cultural heritage of the people of Isoko South and attract more participants in the coming years.
Warri said, “Prior to now, I wouldn’t have been at liberty to stay with you here due to fear of crisis. However, today I am here with you, not only as the number one citizen of our beloved local government but also as a son of Okpolo Enhwe, just like other Igbide people who regularly attend ceremonies at the Okpolo Enhwe community.
“We must maintain this peace, as it is the sole means of paving the way for meaningful development. Moving forward, the Urie fishing festival will become an integral part of the Isoko South Local Government Council’s annual ceremony; we will exert every effort to also engage other bodies.”
Warri was accompanied by the leader of the legislative arm, Oloko Bright; the secretary to the local government, Zino Sofia; Mrs. Alex Beauty, supervising councillor for community and social development; and among other officials.
