King Obele Calls for Unity Beyond Politics in Eleme

By Nwafor Oji Awala 

At his palace in Aleto on Saturday, August 23, His Royal Majesty, Emere Philip Osaro Obele, DSSRS, the Oneh-eh Eleme XI, welcomed the campaign delegation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Eleme. But while the visit was political, the message from the revered monarch was anything but partisan. It was a call for Eleme to rise above political differences and confront its challenges together as one people.

The King’s words were directed at Chief Hon. Obarilomate Ollor, who is seeking a second term as Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area in the August 30 elections. Yet, they resonated far beyond the campaign trail. They spoke to the collective conscience of Eleme’s political class and to the people themselves.

“The door that God has opened cannot be closed by any man,” King Obele declared. “We, the chiefs of Eleme, prayed for Obarilomate Ollor during his first tenure. Today, we surround him again with our staff of office to bless and anoint him.”

But the King was clear that the anointing carried a deeper meaning. It was not only about a man seeking re-election; it was about reaffirming respect for Eleme’s traditional values, institutions, and unity.

Respect for Tradition and Leadership: King Obele praised Ollor for distinguishing himself by recognizing the Eleme Council of Chiefs as critical stakeholders in governance. Unlike some past leaders, Ollor never sidelined the traditional institution or attempted to create “parallel chiefs” for political convenience. Instead, he consulted and engaged with them in matters concerning customs, festivals, and native law.

“That is the mark of true leadership,” the King said firmly. “Not for local authorities to pass staff of office to party faithful, but for leaders to honor the custodians of our traditions.”

The chiefs, in turn, offered their blessing, surrounding Ollor with their staff of office in a symbolic gesture of solidarity.

Security and Environmental Protection: The King highlighted Ollor’s efforts to tackle insecurity, dismantling drug dens and criminal hideouts around Trailer Park, Aleto Bridge, and the Petrochemical complex, spots that had once been magnets for imported crime. He also commended his clampdown on illegal refining activities that worsened the black soot problem and threatened the health of Eleme residents.

“Many may not know the good works that Obarilomate did to keep Eleme safe,” the King observed. “But the truth is, he did a wonderful job. Security-wise, he tried for Eleme land.”

A Warning to Politicians: But King Obele’s address was not all praise. It also carried a warning. With Eleme surrounded by boundary neighbors who “envy its blessings,” he urged politicians to resist the temptation of aligning with outsiders at the expense of the community.

“It is the house rat that shows the bush rat the way to the fish in the kitchen,” the King said pointedly. “Some of our land disputes and struggles come from insiders who open doors for outsiders. Politicians must stop dragging ant-infested wood into our community.”

His message was clear: Eleme’s strength lies in unity, and political leaders must not mortgage it for personal ambition.

“Look Inward for Godfathers”: Reflecting on his long acquaintance with Ollor, dating back to his days as Onne Youth President, the monarch reminded him to stay rooted in his people.

“Do not go outside our land to look for godfathers,” King Obele advised. “Whatever you seek is here among us. Look inward so you do not honor foreigners with what belongs to Eleme. I sit here, but I see farther than those on rooftops.”

Beyond Politics, Towards Unity: In the end, King Obele’s speech was less about endorsing a candidate and more about shaping a vision for Eleme. It was about reminding politicians that power is fleeting, but the land and its people endure. It was about preserving Eleme’s cultural heritage, protecting its resources, and ensuring its unity in the face of external pressures.

As Chief Fred Mbombo Igwe, a member of the Board of Trustees of HYPREP, gave the vote of thanks, the mood at the palace reflected not just political campaigning but a deeper call for collective responsibility.

For Eleme, King Obele’s message was unmistakable: the path to growth lies not in political division, but in walking together, guided by respect for tradition, security of the land, and unity of purpose.

Photos - Eleme APC Campaign Media Team

(c) Prime Heritage Magazine