Without Repentance, True Reconciliation Cannot Occur – Olu of Warri

August 22, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, has stressed that true reconciliation in any society can only be achieved when repentance is embraced. The monarch made the remark while addressing stakeholders during a peace and unity forum in Warri, Delta State.

Ogiame Atuwatse III explained that reconciliation must go beyond mere words and symbolic gestures, insisting that there must be genuine remorse and a commitment to change on the part of offenders. According to him, “Without repentance, reconciliation is shallow and cannot stand the test of time. For peace to last, it must be built on truth, forgiveness, and accountability.”

The monarch further urged political leaders, community heads, and individuals to adopt humility and sincerity in resolving disputes. He noted that the Niger Delta region, and Nigeria at large, stands to benefit greatly if issues of conflict are approached with honesty rather than denial or blame.

Highlighting the role of traditional institutions in peacebuilding, Ogiame Atuwatse III reaffirmed his palace’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity, healing, and sustainable development in the kingdom and beyond.

Community leaders and participants at the forum praised the monarch for his wisdom and consistent advocacy for peace, describing his call as a timely reminder in a period when divisions and grievances remain prevalent in the country.