The Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, Wilson Ojakovo, has endorsed the forthcoming 3rd edition of the Advocate Annual Lecture Series, expressing readiness to attend and offering prayers for the success of the event.
The monarch gave his blessing when a delegation from Advocate Publication Ltd, led by its Managing Director and Publisher, Shedrack Onitsha, paid him a courtesy visit to formally notify him of the programme and present an official invitation.
Speaking during the visit, Oharisi III commended the initiative, describing it as a timely platform for intellectual engagement on critical national issues. He also expressed optimism that the lecture series would grow into an internationally recognised event, while wishing the organisers a successful outing.
The Advocate Lecture Series, organised by Advocate Publication Ltd, publishers of Advocate Newspaper, is scheduled to hold on April 16, 2026, at Wetland Hotel.
Themed “From Ballot to Patronage: Why Electoral Victory Fails to Deliver Good Governance in Nigeria,”* the lecture will interrogate the disconnect between electoral success and effective governance. Discussions will focus on patronage politics, weak institutional oversight, and the need for reforms to strengthen accountability.
Renowned international conference speaker and governance advocate, Charles Apoki, will deliver the keynote address, while respected scholar and community leader, Patrick Muoboghare, will chair the occasion.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, is expected as Special Guest of Honour, alongside Ede Dafinone and businessman and political leader, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, who will serve as Guests of Honour.
Other discussants billed for the event include Omemiroro Ogedegbe, Omosetemi Agbede-Zuokumor, and Monday Ogheneruona Itoghor, while veteran journalist, Abraham Ogbodo, will serve as moderator.
Organisers say the annual lecture series continues to provide a credible platform for robust dialogue on governance and national development, bringing together policymakers, professionals, and thought leaders to proffer solutions to Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
The monarch’s endorsement is seen as a major boost to the event, as preparations intensify for what promises to be a high-profile gathering of stakeholders from across Delta State and beyond.
