The paramount ruler of Opume Community, King Amalate Johnny Turner has been chalked as His Royal Majesty the Obanobhan of Oleibiri Clan in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa state.
The election was held on Saturday at Otuoke town, headquarters of Oloibiri Clan.
Speaking to Niger Delta Herald at his Opume residence shortly after the election, the King-elect said his emergence as the Monarch of his clan was as a result of a long time call on him by his people who wanted him to be their traditional ruler.
Going down memory lane, the Monarch said he became the paramount ruler of Opume Community in 2007 when the stool was not recognized but he fought untill it was recognized as second class stool.
Describing his election as Oloibiri Clan Head as divine, King Turner said he would replicate the peace being witnessed in Opupe to the whole Clan.
While thanking his people for reposing their confidence in him, the King vowed to build a bond of peace, unity and development in Oloibiri Clan, pointing out that being the area where oil was first struck in commercial quantity in Nigeria, he would use his office to liaise with relevant authorities to give his clan international recognition.
He promised to work with all, including two other contestants whom he said had conceded defeat and are also ready to work with him.
“My people came to me and said they want me to takeover from the late King. Out of the sixteen communities that make up Oloibiri clan, fourteen said I should come to be their leader; it becomes overwhelming, and it became difficult for me to ignore.
“I am experienced in the traditional institutions, generally. If I am on that stool there are so many things to be done.
“My clan is where oil was first discovered in commercial quality. We need to tell Nigerians that we cannot be forgotten. We need to speak up for the people†the retired permanent secretary added.
He noted that his coronation would be officially announced by the Kingmakers in the clan.
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