Ewohim-Rebirth of History

By Ernest Omoarelojie 

March 30, 2024.

Twenty-six years ago, Ewohimi, one of the biggest towns in Esanland, woke up to the reality of a new historical dawn following the crowning of the immediate past monarch, HRH, Lord Peter Usifoh, Ogienefoh I. Arguably, the event remains the only time in modern history thousands of those who witnessed the event would recall with nostalgia. For the most part however, not many of them would recall with exactitude the completeness of its significance. That perhaps explains why there is an unprecedented enthusiasm and interest over the coming of the newest monarch, erstwhile heir aparent, Lord Destiny Ebatamaehi Usifoh Ojienefoh II. If nothing else, it will afford them the opportunity to be part of the Rebirth of History. 

Interestingly, the day began with Ewohimi wearing a brand new look and boisterous toga, apparently in anticipation of the new era. From Agadaga, Oghu, Uzebu through the heart of Okaigben, Idumu-Uguokha through Idumu-Ogoh, Uhaikpen through mainland Eguare, the centre of the town and seat of the kingdom’s royalty, even the inanimate wore the colour of celebration for a new dawn. Ewohimi was ready for a new dawn. 

The high, the mighty and the low, from all corners of the country, alongside all sons and daughters of the kingdom from all the quarters, at home and in the diaspora, showed up in volume, ready to celebrate the unveiling of its new traditional and cultural symbols personified. To their waiting delight, the crowning took place amidst pomp and ceremony. Officially, the new king came out in all splendor, and to the delight of all present, at about 1pm. At 2:20pm or thereabout, he received his staff of office from the Governor's representatives, officially commencing his reign as the Omo No' Jie of Ewohimi Kingdom.

Put differently, his ascendancy became one moment that signalled the rebirth of history which no one could afford to miss. That much was evident in huge ululation that greeted his outing and eventual crowning from the tumultuous crowd that awaited his coming. 

The day before the coronation spoke volumes of the events of the D-Day. Not surprisingly, every available space in all the hotels in town were book months ahead. Remarkably, each of the hotels and other available spaces were filled to capacity with practically all Ewohimi sons and daughter, particularly in the diaspora, setting aside the period to be physical present at home to be part of the epoch-making ceremony. Unable to resist the tempting availability of partying venues everywhere, hosts, guests and visitors alike, refused to go to bed till the wee hours of the D-Day. It was party and merry times. Yet they were awake early enough to throng the venue a few hours later. 

Although Edo state governor was conspicuously absent, he was represented by the commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Monday Osaigbovo JP. Among other dignitaries were the monarchs of other kingdoms in Esanland.

In Ewohimi right now, the clarion call is, "All Hail the King!"