The ancient Uwanno kingdom in Edo North came alive on Saturday with pomp, drums, and tradition, as HRM Senator Francis Asekhhame Alimikhena was formally installed and presented with the staff of office as the new Okumagbe of Uwanno.
It was a day of heritage and celebration in Uwanno kingdom.
Draped in royal regalia and accompanied by traditional chiefs, title holders, and palace guards, the people welcomed their new monarch, HRM Senator Francis Asekhhame Alimikhena, to the sacred throne of their forebearers.
In line with Government practice, the presentation of the staff of office by the Edo State Government marked the official recognition of the new monarch by both the Kingdom and the state.
The presentation of the staff of office was performed by the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in the presence of several dignitaries including former Edo State Governor Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
The Okumagbe stool of Uwanno is rooted in the deep cultural and traditional heritage of the old Wappa Wanno people of Etsako East Local government area of Edo State.
The installation of traditional leadership
ascendancy, to the throne is determined by leadership qualities that respects the values of wisdom, service and unity
For the people of Uwanno, the coronation is more than politics — it is the continuation of a heritage that binds generations.
Cultural performances, traditional dances, and chants filled the palace grounds as elders offered prayers and blessings for peace and prosperity in the reign of the new Okumagbe.
Community leaders say the people look to HRM Alimikhena to uphold the customs of the land, preserve Uwanno’s identity, and serve as a unifier for the clan. The large turnout, they noted, reflects the confidence the people have in a monarch whose life reflects service across many spheres.
With this coronation, Uwanno kingdom has written a new chapter in its history — one anchored in tradition, culture, and the enduring spirit of its people.
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(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
