The 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom, Omoba Tshola Emiko, has been crowned as Ogiame Atuwatse III.

This comes after a series of activities lined up for the coronation of the monarch, who ascended the throne on Saturday, 21st August 2021.

The coronation witnessed colourful dance performances by various cultural groups and pleasant musical renditions from the Warri Royal Choir and Laz Ekwueme Orchestral, among others.

One of the high points of the event was the selection of a ceremonial sword by the Olu while being blindfolded among 20 others.

But one of the 21 swords which bear the names of his 20 predecessors is usually left unnamed.

According to the high chiefs in the kingdom, the monarch is expected to use the name of the predecessor he picks as his title throughout his reign as the 21st Olu.

After he took the oath of office and adopted a title for his reign, the Olu of Warri was crowned by the Uwangue of Warri, Chief Gabriel Awala.

This led to the change of his name from Omoba Tsola Emiko to Ogiame Atuwatse III.

The coronation of the new Olu of Warri also enjoyed the presence of many dignitaries from various parts of the country, including political leaders and traditional rulers.

Political leaders present are Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu; Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase; and former Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, among others.

Some of the traditional rulers and dignitaries also in attendance include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe; Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams; and President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick.