Ayo Oladiran
Prince Utieyinoritsegsa Emiko broke protocols at his coronation ceremony on Saturday as he ordered guests and subjects to remain seated while he stood – a deviation from the norm of standing when the king arises.
Before delivering his first speech as the newly crowned Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III sang songs of thanksgiving to God while seated on his throne, after which he excused those present from standing when he did.
“I’m about to stand and I know the protocol is when I stand, you do, but please remain seated,” he said.
In his speech, the new Olu of Warri regressed the curse allegedly placed on the land by Oba Akezuwa II of Benin and Olu Erejuwa II and prayed for forgiveness and healing for Nigeria.
The youngest ever Olu of Warri ascends the throne at age 37 taking over from his uncle, the 20th Olu of Warri who reigned for five years before his death.
Ogiame Atuwatse III said his coronation was ordained by God.
“This is in every ramification, a very special day. One that has been predestined and divinely ordained by the Most High God.
“He and he alone could have determined that three months after our idanike began in May, our coronation would take place today. The only Saturday that occurs as a 21st day of the month,” the Olu said.
The coronation was attended by the Ooni Of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; Singer, Omawunmi; representatives of the Oba of Benin and many others.
