In a historic display of royal camaraderie and Niger Delta solidarity, His Royal Highness Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi (Eyewei V), the Amananawei of the Federal Capital Territory and widely known as General Young Shall Grow, paid an official visit to His Royal Majesty King Ateke Tom Michael, Sekuru I of Niger Delta and Amayanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, at his royal residence in Rivers State.
The high-profile visit was part of HRH Dr. Selky’s appreciation tour following the recent burial rites of his beloved father. He came to personally thank HRM King Ateke Tom for his unwavering moral and logistical support throughout the funeral ceremony, describing the monarch’s gesture as “deeply touching and emblematic of the true Niger Delta spirit.”
The reception was nothing short of regal. Upon arrival at the Okochiri Palace, HRH Dr. Selky was warmly received with traditional fanfare, drumming, and cultural displays, reflecting the kingdom’s deep-rooted respect for his leadership and legacy. Dressed in full royal regalia, both kings exchanged pleasantries, reminisced about their shared struggles in the Niger Delta liberation movement, and reaffirmed their enduring bond.
In his remarks, HRH Dr. Selky praised HRM King Ateke Tom for his role as a stabilizing force in the region and a beacon of cultural pride.
“Your Majesty’s consistent support, not only during my time of grief but over the years, reflects your genuine commitment to brotherhood and unity. This visit is not just a gesture of gratitude; it is a reaffirmation of our shared heritage, struggle, and vision for the Niger Delta people,” Dr. Selky stated.
HRM King Ateke Tom, visibly elated by the visit, lauded Dr. Selky as a man of valor and purpose. He described the visit as “an honour to the Okochiri Kingdom” and expressed his pride in the strong bonds that continue to unite traditional institutions across Nigeria, especially those who stood at the forefront of regional advocacy.
“We fought for peace, justice, and recognition for our people. Today, we celebrate not only the lives we’ve touched but the brotherhood we’ve built. This visit strengthens our collective resolve to protect our culture, support one another, and develop our communities,” the Amayanabo declared.
The visit concluded with a private royal banquet and exchange of gifts, symbolizing mutual respect and the continuous deepening of ties between the two revered leaders.
As the Niger Delta continues to forge a path toward sustainable peace and development, moments like these between traditional rulers highlight the enduring role of cultural diplomacy and leadership unity in nation-building.
