Uvwie Monarch, Abe I, Launches Autobiography Odyssey of Royalty at 83

By Kparobo Ehvwubare
The Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Dr. Emmanuel E. Sideso, Abe I, JP, OON, on Friday formally presented and launched his autobiography, Odyssey of Royalty  The Reign of Abe I, at a colourful ceremony held at his palace in Effurun, Delta State.

The event attracted prominent national and state leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, political office holders, and members of the Uvwie Kingdom.
In his keynote address, the monarch expressed gratitude to God for longevity and fulfilment at 83, describing the book as a truthful documentation of his life journey and reign.

Quoting an African proverb that “until the lion tells his side of the story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter,” Abe I said the autobiography was written to preserve authentic history and inspire future generations.

“This book is my attempt to document the truth of our era, the paths we have trodden, the storms we have weathered, and the triumphs we have celebrated together,” he stated.

The monarch noted that the publication chronicles his transition from a distinguished professional career at the Nigerian Mint to the sacred responsibility of the throne, adding that the story also highlights the collective achievements of the Uvwie Kingdom over the past 18 years.

He credited the successes recorded under his reign to socio-economic inclusivity, unity, and resilience of the Uvwie people, citing the construction of the multi-million naira Ovie Palace as one of the landmark accomplishments of his administration.

The event was attended by top government functionaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, who chaired the occasion.

Speaking on national issues, the monarch commended the current federal administration for what he described as pragmatic efforts to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth. He called for unity, justice, and the development of a workable constitution that guarantees fairness and a sense of belonging for all Nigerians.
He also expressed concern over rising transportation costs, particularly airfares, urging airlines to consider a downward review in the interest of national development.

“Flying is now presumed safer than road travel in many parts of the country, but the sky-high cost of air travel is alarming,” he remarked.

Abe I further emphasized that government alone cannot address Nigeria’s challenges, urging traditional rulers and religious leaders to collaborate in promoting unity, economic empowerment, and moral leadership.The monarch used the occasion to appreciate Governor Oborevwori for infrastructural upgrades in Uvwie Kingdom and continued support for the Uvwie Education/Scholarship Scheme initiated by former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa. He also acknowledged the contributions of former governors Chief James Ibori and Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan to the development of the kingdom.

The ceremony concluded with goodwill messages from dignitaries and cultural displays celebrating the heritage of the Uvwie people.

The autobiography, Odyssey of Royalty – The Reign of Abe I, is expected to serve as a historical reference on the monarch’s life, leadership philosophy, and the socio-economic evolution of Uvwie Kingdom.