Richard Layieguen, Ovie Ogoni-Oghoro I, the Owhorode of the Olomu Kingdom, has received congratulations from Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on his 106th birthday.
Okowa congratulated the king in a statement sent on Friday to newsmen in Asaba by his chief press secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika.
The Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) vice presidential candidate Okowa praised the royal father for his services to the state's ongoing peace.
He characterised him as a royal cannon, elder statesman, and bridge-builder who had reached a significant turning point in his life.
The governor stated that the traditional ruler's rule has been exceedingly advantageous to the Urhobo people in general and to his kingdom in particular since he ascended the ancient throne of his forebears.
He claimed that during his 35 years on the throne, the Olomu king, who also serves as the Chairman of the Urhobo Traditional Rulers, had made significant contributions to the expansion and advancement of both his kingdom and the Urhobo people.
He said that the anniversary of the royal father's birth was a noteworthy occasion that called for a celebration of the monarch.
Okowa declared that he joined the royal family, the citizens of the Olomu Kingdom both at home and abroad, as well as the entire Urhobo people, in honouring the 100-year-old monarch.
He prayed that God would continue to grant the illustrious traditional ruler more vigour, health, and wisdom so that he might lead the people of his realm.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I warmly felicitate with Richard Layieguen, Ovie Ogoni-Oghoro I, OON, the Owhorode of Olomu Kingdom, on his 106th birth anniversary.
“We pray that the Almighty God will continue to bless you with more wisdom and good health as you continue to ensure that your domain is peaceful for the growth and development of your people, the Urhobos and their neighbours,” Okowa said. (NAN)