Burial rites for Olu of Warri begin

As part of an elaborate cultural ceremony to celebrate the life and times of the deceased Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse 11, the Itsekiri at the weekend began 14-day burial rites.

For 14 days Ode Itsekiri, the ancestral home of the Itsekiri people would witness different cultural ceremonies to atone the late monarch.

The ceremony would be concluded with the installation of the new Olu of Warri, Prince Ikenwoli Gbesimi Emiko and the late Olu’s successor, who is expected to be installed on December 12, 2015 at Ode Itsekiri.

Both events, according to Chief Yahya Pessu, the Ojomo of Warri, would be witnessed by eminent personalities from different parts of Nigeria, he disclosed that adequate arrangements have been put on ground at Ode Itsekiri to host dignitaries and well wishers.

Also, all Itsekiri sons and daughters from both within and outside the country would customarily grace the ceremony due to its uncommon nature.

The burial rites began last Thursday with a commendation service at the palace in Warri, which has been given a befitting facelift.