….Warns Against “Deve” Collection
BY Elohor Foghola
In a bid to foster development and promote socio-cultural values in Itsekiri land otherwise called Iwere land, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III has warned against acts of extortion known as “deve” collection, while charging all indigenes to return and build their ancestral homelands, especially the riverine areas.
He gave the charge in a statement, made available to newsmen, saying that “the Itsekiris have found favour in Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration”, just as he recalled that the Governor on an inspection tour last week, pledged to complete the abandoned Trans Warri bridge in two years’ time.
The monarch described the project time-line as a cheery news for the Itsekiris, saying “the bridge connects us to our ancestral capital, Ode Itsekiri so it isn’t just a means of transportation. it’s also a clarion call for the return of Itsekiri to their roots”
He called on all Itsekiri sons and daughters to be united and determined to achieve the goal as government cannot do it alone.
Atuwatse III said he would take the lead by rebuilding “the Ejo Hall in Bateren. “After that is done, the land given to Atúwàtse II in Ajudaibo, will be developed, marking his presence in Benin River and Escravos River areas, respectively.”
He directed that henceforth those who want to be considered for chieftainy titles, or those seeking the blessing and support of the palace will be required to have a house in the village.
He also instructed that burial and temotsi (marriage) rites be he conducted in the community,ies concerned unless cases where the deceased gave instructions on his or her funeral.
“let us be proud of our home, where our ancestors called home, where God has given us as our home. Let us be proud to showcase it to the whole world perhaps that’s the motivation that would make us to be more committed to developing our villages.”
The monarch reaffirmed his position on Otononokeren /Otonobiren (discrimination against persons of female lineage), stating “we will not tolerate discrimination against people because they are of a woman’s lineage. Not only are they welcome to bring development, they are welcome to serve in elders councils and other administrative structures at the community level. We cannot afford to discriminate against ourselves any longer. We need each other.”
The royal father admonished his subjects that funds meant for development, should be utilized towards the development of the communities, and not shared by individuals.
He cautioned against “deve” when people begin to return to develop their areas.
