Celebrations As Gelegele-Gbene Installs 47th Amaokosuwei [PHOTOS]

The people of oil-rich Gelegele-Gbene, an ancient Ijaw community in Ovia North Local Government Area of Edo State, came alive with celebration on Saturday as Alaowei Benson Ogouyinbo was installed as the 47th Amaokosuwei, the oldest man in the community. The event was marked by a lively display of cultural activities and festive splendor.

Gelegele-Gbene Community, like any other Ijaw community, is headed by the most elderly male indigene called the Amaokosuwei and assisted by the Amaokosu Gboluwei, Ama Nanawei, Ama Bawei, Ama Diwei, Ikasi-Tebewei, Ogun Bolowei, Toru-Diwei, Eru Kariwei, and many other traditional titles. Evidence and events have shown that the only overlord, influence, and control wielded over the Gelegele people is an Ijaw influence under the traditional ruler/overlord of the Olodiama Kingdom. The ruler is the Pere of Olodiama Kingdom, the “Overlord” to whom the Gelegele people traditionally paid homage.

The installation ceremony took place at the community’s central gathering area, with High Chief Alabo Nengi James, 2nd Vice Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), presiding as Chairman of the Occasion. Key figures at the event included Chief Robinson Ogunkoru, Western Zone Chairman of INC, and HRM Godwin Ogouyinbo, Alagbabunafa III, representing the Pere of Olodiama.

In his address, Chief Alabo Nengi James expressed his gratitude, saying, “I want to thank the people of Gelegele for their unwavering commitment to preserving Ijaw culture and protecting Gelegele land. Our land is a divine inheritance, and no one can take it from us. The Ijaw nation stands firmly with Gelegele, affirming that Gelegele’s heritage is sacred and protected.”

Notable personalities present at the event includes Sir Dr. BJ Braie, Chairman, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Edo State, Hon. Joel Bisina, PhD, former Commissioner for Special Duties in Delta State, and Barrister Toru-ibe Toru-Ibe Agagha, Legal Adviser to INC Edo State. Chief Honest Adodo, General Asupa, and their entourages were also present.

Comrade Olu-Derimon Omaghomi, Chairman of the Community, expressed his gratitude for the support and participation of various groups. He stated, “Today’s installation of Alaowei Benson Ogouyinbo as the 47th Amaokosuwei is a momentous occasion for Gelegele-Gbene. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this event a success, from the Olodiama communities and their leaders to the youth and women of Gelegele. Your presence and support have truly made this day memorable. We also appreciate Engr. Pius Donyegha, Chairman and CEO of Pydon Nig Ltd, APT Logistics, and Tamaraemi Mega Farms, for his significant contributions and the continued support from our distinguished guests.”

The event featured cultural performances and traditional masquerade displays, adding to the day’s celebratory atmosphere.

The ceremony concluded with expressions of gratitude to the community’s leaders, elders, and the National President of INC Worldwide, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, for their unwavering support.