By: Emmanuel Abi Couson
Ahead of the April 18 International Day of Monuments and Sites, IDMS with the theme “Discover and Experience Diversity”, prominent members of the Warri Kingdom Royal Cemetery Management Committee paid a visit to the Director General , National Commission for Museum Mr Olugbile Holloway in Lagos.
The delegation of two comprised of Mr Henry Erikowa an Itsekiri born Nigerian curator and art administrator, who is also the Chairman Advisory Board, Nanna Living History Museum,Koko and Mrs Ete Ayida , a member of the Board.
They briefed the DG on the State of the Warri Kingdom Royal Cemetery and the Nanna Living History Museum.
The Royal Cemetery at Ijala in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State Nigeria,is one of the 108 declared State and national monuments and sites.
The DG of the National Commission for Museum, charged all Curators across the country to protect sites and monuments in their areas of primary assignments with emphasizes on the importance of promoting a deeper understanding of the multitude of cultures, traditions, and ecosystems .
The Warri Royal Cemetery is a sacred place serving as the final resting place for the monarchs of the Warri Kingdom, specifically the Olu of Warri .
The cemetery is unique, featuring traditional tombstones and trees are planted to commemorate each king, with some of these trees being over 400 years old
The cemetery is home to the remains of 20 monarchs, dating back to over 520 years, and is considered a significant cultural and historical the Itsekiri people.
