Oloibiri kingdom elects Jonathan’s ally as new Obanobhan

Oloibiri Kingdom in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has elected King Amalate Turner, an ally of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, as its new Obanobhan.

The election was held at Otuoke town, four years after the former Obanobhan of Oloibiri clan, Adoku Maddock-Ogbogi, died in 2018.

Speaking at his Opume residence shortly after the election, the king-elect said his emergence was as a result of a long time call on him by his people who wanted him to be their traditional ruler.

Going down memory lane, the monarch said he became the paramount ruler of Opume community in 2007 when the stool was not recognised but he fought until it was recognised as second class stool.

Describing his election as the Oloibiri Clan Head as divine, King Turner said he would replicate the peace being witnessed in Opume to the whole of Oloibiri clan.

While thanking his people for reposing]\’ confidence in him, King Turner vowed to build a bond of peace, unity and development in Oloibiri clan, pointing out that being the area where oil was first struck in commercial quantity in Nigeria, he would use his office to liaise with relevant authorities to give his clan international recognition.

He promised to work with all, including two other contestants whom he said had conceded defeat who are also ready to work with him.

“My people came to me and said they want me to take over from the late king. Out of the 16 communities that make up Oloibiri clan, 14 said I should come to be their leader; it becomes overwhelming and difficult for me to ignore.

“I am experienced in the traditional institutions, generally. If I am on that stool there are so many things to be done.

“My clan is where oil was first discovered in commercial quality. We need to tell Nigerians that we cannot be forgotten. We need to speak up for the people” the retired permanent secretary added.

He noted that his coronation would be officially announced by the kingmakers in the clan soon.