His Highness King Engr. Abiye Bright Iyo JP, Paramount Ruler of Okrika Plantation Community in Umuebulu, Etche Local Government Area, has commended the Executive Chairman of Etche LGA, Chief Hon. Chima Boniface Njoku, for paying a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, His Majesty King Dr. Ateke Michael Tom.
King Iyo explained that the commendation is informed by the historic ties between Etche and Okrika. He noted that Okrika Plantation Community in Umuebulu are distinct settlers in Etche who have become part and parcel of the Etche ethnic nation and, as such, any effort to strengthen relations between both kingdoms is dear to his people.
"The visit of the Etche LGA Chairman to our father, King Ateke Tom of Okochiri, symbolizes the age-long brotherly relationship between Etche and Okrika. We have come a long way and share common ancestry," the monarch stated.
Chief Hon. Njoku was received with royal honors at the Okochiri Palace and was flanked by supporters and loyalists from both Etche and Okrika. The meeting was described as cordial, with discussions centered on peace, unity and development, followed by lavish royal entertainment.
King Abiye Bright Iyo, a British-trained Metallurgical Engineer, prayed that the relationship between Etche and Okrika be sustained for the mutual benefit of both peoples and for the progress of Rivers State. He also lauded the developmental strides of Chief Chima Njoku and urged him not to relent in his efforts to develop Etche.
King Iyo further lauded His Majesty King Dr. Ateke Tom for his open-door policy and love, which he said has endeared the monarch to many across the Niger Delta, and urged him to maintain the tempo.
He also applauded the Etche LGA Chairman for paying homage to "Sokuru I of the Niger Delta," describing the gesture as one that reflects respect for traditional institutions and commitment to unity among sister communities.
