Olu of Warri, Ikenwoli Godfrey Emiko, is dead.
The monarch died on Monday morning, barely a week after his fifth coronation anniversary.
According to Sahara Reporters, the monarch died of COVID-19 complications. He was said to have met with the late Major General John Irefin, who died earlier this month from COVID-19 complications.
Though none of the palace chiefs was willing to confirm or deny it, there was palpable apprehension in the palace on Monday, while some people were also in a sombre mood.
“Olu of Warri is dead but the palace chiefs are trying to keep the information hidden from the public till they are sure the time is right,” Sahara Reporters quoted a source as saying.
Ikenwoli Godfrey Emiko was born on March 19,1955 to Olu Erejuwa II and Olori Eyinagboluwade Emiko. He was the 20th Olu of Warri.
He succeeded his younger brother, Olu Atuwatse II who died in March 2015.
Ikenwoli Godfrey Emiko was crowned Ogiame Ikenwoli on the December 12, 2015 at Ode-Itsekiri, the ancestral home of the Itsekiri people in a ceremony which was witnessed by many dignitaries.
According to reports official announcement of his death is expected to be made soon by the Ologbosere of Warri, Chief Emami Ayiri, who, as the traditional Prime Minister of the town, is empowered to break the news of the monarch’s death.
