Tompolo, Ijaw Monarchs Hold Grand Thanksgiving at Gbaraun Egbesu Temple

In a major cultural and spiritual gathering, the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), on Tuesday led Ijaw monarchs and traditional rulers in an expanded thanksgiving ceremony at the Gbaraun Egbesu Temple in Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.

The Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba, headed a delegation of royal fathers who assembled at the sacred temple for the ceremony.

The event drew elders, youths, prominent personalities and sons and daughters of the Ijaw nation, held in honour of the deities of Ijaw land—especially the revered Egbesu. Monarchs from Delta, Bayelsa, Edo and Ondo States also attended following their return from a spiritual pilgrimage.

The thanksgiving symbolised unity, peace and cultural renewal among the Ijaw people, reflecting on their shared challenges and achievements amid socio-economic and political pressures. Prayers were offered for the Ijaw Nation, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria, with emphasis on peace and economic reforms.

Tompolo, widely regarded for his role in stabilising the Niger Delta, addressed the gathering, acknowledging the importance of traditional institutions in sustaining harmony.

He praised the monarchs and elders for their peace-building role and reaffirmed his dedication to the welfare of the Ijaw people and the country.

“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 stated.

The Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom also expressed deep gratitude for the peace restored 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.

Among the dignitaries present was Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Registrar of the Maritime University, Okerenkoko, underscoring the importance of the ceremony.

The Gbaraun Egbesu Temple, a central spiritual landmark in Gbaramatu, remains a symbol of the Ijaw people’s ancestral heritage and divine protection. It plays a major role during festivals such as Amasiekumor, and continues to serve as a hub of cultural and religious activity.

Tuesday’s ceremony featured traditional dances, music and prayers, with elders invoking blessings for peace, development and prosperity across the Niger Delta. Ijaw youths also played an active role, demonstrating the importance of cultural continuity for future generations.

Speeches from leaders at the event emphasised unity and called for greater investment in infrastructure and human development in the region, urging federal and state governments to prioritise the needs of the Ijaw people.

The gathering ultimately highlighted Ijaw resilience and commitment to cultural preservation, national unity and regional progress. Tompolo and the monarchs reaffirmed their support for the people of the Niger Delta and for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

As the ceremony concluded, the overarching message resonated clearly: the Ijaw nation remains determined to safeguard its cultural heritage and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.

Opinion Nigeria News