By ELO EDREMODA, Warri

Preliminary preparations are in top gear for coronation of the Olu-designate for Warri kingdom, Prince Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, The Nation learnt on Wednesday.

A source close to the Olu’s palace told The Nation preparations for the ceremony are going on smoothly notwithstanding the seeming tussle outside.

“Forget about the politics aspect of it (kingship) going on outside,” the source stated.

When contacted, Secretary to the Media and Publicity Committee for the coronation, Sir. Matthew Tsekure said: “The fact is that preparations for the coronation of the Olu-designate are seriously ongoing”.

Stunning photographs of the Olu-designate, depicting Itsekiri royalty, flooded the internet on Tuesday.

This comes despite two suits instituted at a High Court sitting in Warri by son of His Majesty, Ogiame Ikenwoli, Prince Oyowoli Emiko and the Ologbotsere of Warri, Chief Ayirimi Emami.

Both suits are among other things, contesting the process that saw the emergence of Prince ‘Tsola Emiko as Olu-designate.

The Iyatsere of Warri and acting chairman, Olu Advisory Council, had announced August 21, which is a month away, as the coronation date of the Omoba.

Omoba ‘Tsola Emiko would be crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri kingdom.

He succeeds Ogiame Ikenwoli, whose traditional funeral rites were concluded about a fortnight ago in Ode-Itsekiri. (The Nation)