Tompolo Recommits to Nigeria, Ijaw Welfare in Thanksgiving Ceremony at Gbaraun Egbesu Temple

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo has re-emphasized his commitment to Nigeria and the welfare of Ijaw people.

He gave the commitment on Tuesday when he led Ijaw monarchs and traditional leaders in an enlarged thanksgiving service at the sacred Gbaraun Egbesu Temple in Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom of Delta State.

Tompolo, the Niger Delta Peace Advocate, emphasized his ongoing commitment to the welfare of the Ijaw people and Nigeria reiterating that his involvement in the peace process would continue as long as it benefited the people of the Niger Delta.

“This land has suffered for far too long, and it is time for us to continue working together for the prosperity of our people, ensuring that the blessings of our ancestors are not in vain”, he added.

Acknowledging the critical role of traditional institutions in fostering harmony in the region, Tompolo praised the efforts of the monarchs and elders in maintaining peace amidst the complex socio-political dynamics of the area.

On his part, The Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba expressed profound gratitude to the gods for the peace that had returned to the region after years of conflict.

“Today is a day of thanksgiving, a day to celebrate our culture, our traditions, and most importantly, to give thanks for the blessings we have received,” he said.

Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, the Registrar of Maritime University, Okerenkoko, was among the dignitaries in attendance, underscoring the significance of the event.

The event which attracted dignitaries, elders, youths, and sons and daughters of the Ijaw nation, was held to honor the gods of Ijaw land, with particular emphasis on the revered Egbesu deity.

The sacred event also brought together monarchs from Delta, Bayelsa, Edo, and Ondo States, who had returned from a spiritual pilgrimage.

The thanksgiving ceremony marked a moment of unity, peace, and cultural renewal among the Ijaw people, as well as a reflection on their shared struggles and triumphs in the face of socio-economic and political challenges.

The one-day event was dedicated to praying for the Ijaw Nation, Niger Delta, and Nigeria, with a focus on promoting peace and advocating for economic reforms

The ceremony served as a reaffirmation of the Ijaw people’s commitment to these values and their desire for peace and prosperity in the Niger Delta and beyond.

The Gbaraun Egbesu Temple at Oporoza, a place of spiritual significance to the Ijaw people, is located in the heart of Gbaramatu kingdom.

It serves as a symbol of the people’s deep-rooted spiritual connection to their heritage and their divine protection. Over the years, it has become a centre of cultural and religious activity, particularly during Amasiekumor festival, ceremonies that honor the Ijaw gods.

The thanksgiving ceremony at the temple was marked by dances, music, and prayers, with elders invoking the blessings of the gods for peace, prosperity, and development in the Niger Delta.

The Ijaw youths also participated actively, reinforcing the idea that cultural preservation and unity were essential for the future of the region.