Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with traditional institutions in the state.

Mr Oborevwori stated this during the presentation of the Staff of Office to King Peters Rarepet, Ekperare I, the Ovie of Iyede in Isoko North Local Government Area of the state, on Thursday in Isoko, Delta.

The governor described traditional rulers as indispensable partners in governance, peacebuilding and grassroots development.

The governor was represented by his deputy, Monday Onyeme.

He congratulated the royal father on his recognition and ascension to the traditional throne.

The governor also commended the chiefs, elders and people of Iyede for their patience and commitment towards making the occasion a reality.

Mr Oborevwori described traditional rulers as important stakeholders who preserve cultural heritage, promote peace, resolve disputes and mobilise their people for development.

He assured the people that his administration would continue to strengthen its partnership with traditional institutions.

According to him, the Staff of Office was a symbol of authority and a call to service.

He, therefore, urged the king to lead with wisdom, fairness and compassion while ensuring that every village and family in his domain enjoyed a sense of belonging.

He appealed to the people to put aside their differences and embrace unity, stressing that their shared history and common destiny should supersede individual interests.

“To the people of the 17 villages in Iyede, I urge you to embrace this new chapter with a renewed commitment to unity, your shared history and common destiny should always be greater than your differences.

“The strength and progress of Iyede depend on your ability to work together.

“To the new king, the Staff of Office you receive today is not only a symbol of authority; it is a call to service.

“You are now the father of the entire Iyede, I urge you to lead with wisdom, fairness and compassion.

“Be a unifying father to all, rise above sectional interests and ensure that every village and every family has a sense of belonging under your reign.

“My good people of Iyede, give your king the necessary support to succeed, put aside personal differences and work together for the progress of your kingdom.

“No community can achieve meaningful development without peace and unity,” he said.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive development through the MORE Agenda, Mr Oborevwori assured the people that the needs of Iyede and Isoko North would continue to receive attention within available resources.

Earlier, the chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Godwin Ogorugba, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the state and local governments in delivering the dividends of democracy.

In his welcome address, the President-General of Iyede Progress Union, Obido Anthony, expressed profound appreciation to the state government for recognising the traditional institution and presenting the Staff of Office to the new king.

(NAN)