Olu of Warri unveils book, blasts cultural amnesia

DDM News

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has officially launched a new historical book titled The 1492 Itsekiri Odyssey at a ceremony held in his royal palace in Warri, Delta State.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the revered monarch used the occasion to express deep admiration for the book’s author, Uti Michael Omatsone, commending him for his detailed and insightful depiction of the Itsekiri people’s heritage.

The Olu emphasized that literature remains a powerful tool for cultural preservation and identity-building, especially in a time when indigenous histories risk fading into obscurity.

He urged both emerging and established Itsekiri writers to engage more deliberately in telling their stories through novels, poetry, academic studies, and other creative forms.

According to Ogiame Atuwatse III, celebrating Itsekiri culture through literature not only strengthens communal identity but also provides the younger generation with a source of pride and historical awareness.

He further stressed that storytelling is intrinsic to the Itsekiri way of life, and that investing in such narratives helps defend the community against cultural erosion.

The 1492 Itsekiri Odyssey, the newly launched work, reportedly delves into the rich historical journey of the Itsekiri people from pre-colonial times to the present day, weaving together oral traditions, documented history, and cultural analysis.

Omatsone, the author, expressed gratitude to the Olu of Warri for his encouragement and royal blessing, promising to continue contributing to the preservation of Itsekiri heritage through future publications.

He stated that the book aims to revive interest in indigenous knowledge systems and inspire further research into the Itsekiri civilization.

The event drew attendance from traditional leaders, scholars, cultural advocates, and literary figures, who praised both the author and the monarch for their joint effort in revitalizing local history.

Ogiame Atuwatse III concluded the ceremony with a clarion call to all Itsekiri sons and daughters to embrace their identity proudly and share it with the world.

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