“Is Ekiyor the New Ijaw Kingmaker? Monarchs’ Visit to Patani Raises Eyebrows”
By Passman Akpos
PATANI, DELTA STATE — Tradition, prestige, and political symbolism converged in Patani as two influential Ijaw monarchs made a high-profile visit to the country home of Chief Dr. Chris Ekiyor, in what observers describe as a significant moment of unity within the Ijaw nation.
His Royal Majesty, Oboro-Gbaraun II, Aketekpe, Agadagba, Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, alongside His Royal Majesty, Shadrach Erebulu, Aduo III, Pere of Kabowei Kingdom, arrived in regal style on Friday, drawing a gathering of chiefs, stakeholders, and community leaders.
The visit came ahead of the Kabowei Cultural Festival, where chieftaincy titles are set to be conferred—an event already generating attention across Delta State.
Chief Dr. Chris Ekiyor, a former President of the Ijaw Youth Council and respected public health advocate, received the monarchs with a blend of cultural reverence and political significance, reinforcing his standing within the Ijaw socio-political structure.
In a strong endorsement, the Pere of Gbaramatu praised Ekiyor’s longstanding role in youth development, peacebuilding, and Ijaw nation advancement, stressing that leadership must remain anchored in integrity and service.
“Leaders must not forget their roots. Our strength lies in unity and cultural identity,” the monarch declared, before offering royal prayers invoking ancestral blessings for Ekiyor and his household.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Pere of Kabowei underscored the urgent need for leadership driven by competence, compassion, and cultural consciousness, describing such values as essential for sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
Responding, Chief Ekiyor—who also holds the title of Opuala of Kabowei Kingdom and serves as Chairman of the Kabowei Cultural Festival Organising Committee—expressed deep appreciation for what many are calling a symbolic show of royal confidence.
“The blessing of our kings is the blessing of our people. This honour strengthens my resolve to continue serving our land,” he stated.
The visit was marked by traditional rites, strategic consultations, and closed-door discussions reportedly centered on peace, unity, and the future direction of the Ijaw nation.
Political watchers say the convergence of two powerful monarchs around Ekiyor signals more than cultural solidarity—it may hint at emerging alignments ahead of key regional engagements.
As anticipation builds for the Kabowei Cultural Festival, Friday’s royal visit has already set the tone, blending heritage with influence in a way that could reshape conversations within the Niger Delta.
