Historic Day in Gelegele as Olodiama monarch Strengthens Palace-Community Bonds

[Abigail pereowei]

The Gelegele-Gbene Community in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State was filled with jubilation and cultural splendour on Thursday, 6th November 2025, as residents came out in large numbers to welcome His Royal Majesty, Alagbabunafa III, the Pere of Olodiama Kingdom, during his official visit.

The occasion, described by many as historic and unforgettable, featured a spectacular display of traditional dances, drumming, chants, and cultural exhibitions that showcased the rich heritage of the Olodiama people. Residents, chiefs, and visitors, adorned in regal attire, lined the streets to pay homage to their revered monarch. The visit was seen as a blessing and a symbol of unity within the community.

In his address, the Pere commended the community for its cleanliness and hospitality. He urged residents to remain united and honest, warning against deceit and betrayal, to ensure meaningful progress for Gelegele-Gbene and other communities under the Olodiama Kingdom.

Demonstrating his commitment to youth development, His Majesty pledged to sew 100 pairs of school uniforms for primary and secondary school students in the community. He also offered prayers for the well-being of all present and for continued peace and prosperity across the land.

According to Chief Robinson Ogunkoru, the Tori-Puwei of Olodiama Kingdom, the royal visit is part of His Majesty’s ongoing tour of communities under the kingdom. The initiative is designed to strengthen relationships between the throne and its subjects, promote peace, foster development, and preserve cultural values.

Speaking at the event, Rt. Hon. Samuel Ekpemupolo, Leader, Warri South-West Legislative Arm Chairman/Coordinator, Delta State Councillors' Forum, praised the Pere for his visionary leadership and commitment to fostering unity among his people.

He noted that the king’s presence in Gelegele-Gbene would deepen the bond between the palace and the community, reinforcing the cultural and spiritual ties that unite the Olodiama people.

Also present were community leaders Engr. Pius Donyegha and Comrade Olu-Derimon Omaghomi, Community Chairman of Gelegele-Gbene, who expressed profound gratitude to the Pere and the guests in attendance. They lauded the community’s turnout and the peaceful conduct of the event, describing the day as “a memorable chapter in the history of Gelegele-Gbene.”

They extended appreciation to dignitaries, friends, and visitors who traveled from near and far to honor the monarch, emphasizing that the visit would catalyze renewed development, unity, and cooperation within the Olodiama Kingdom.

Accompanying His Royal Majesty were Bishop Godwins Soroaye (JP), Chief Clarkson Benson, the Pere-Diwei, Chief Goodnews Agbede, and other notable chiefs and palace officials, whose presence added grandeur and royal prestige to the colorful event.

The occasion drew personalities from within and beyond Edo State, including community leaders, youth representatives, and cultural troupes, all gathered to pay homage to the Pere and reaffirm their loyalty to the royal institution. Music, dance, laughter, and prayers filled the air, weaving a vivid tapestry of cultural pride that will remain etched in the hearts of residents for years to come.

As the day came to a close, the Gelegele-Gbene Community had experienced not only the presence of their monarch but also a powerful celebration of culture, leadership, and communal unity, a day that will be remembered as a landmark in the history of the Olodiama Kingdom.

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