Meet The Tycoon’s Ologbotsere Of Warri Kingdom: Chief Ayiri – Influential Protégé Of President Tinubu At 50 [PHOTOS]

Chief Ayiri Emami (born April 26, 1975) is a Nigerian businessman, politician, and philanthropist, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of A & E group, a company with investments in oil and gas, construction, haulage, entertainment and the hospitality industry.

His first title “Akulagba of Warri Kingdom” was conferred on him by the Olu (king) of the Warri kingdom, Olu Atuwatse II. When his successor Ogiame Ikenwoli ascended the throne, he conferred on Ayiri Emami the title Ologbotsere (prime minister) of the Warri kingdom. He was illegally suspended on 30 March 2021 as Ologbotsere by the Ginuwa 1 Ruling House, and on October 5 2021, the Olu Ogiame Atuwatse III whose case is still in court for the illegal ascension to the throne of Warri Kingdom as the 21st Olu of Warri recalled his right to the title Ologbotsere. However, Prince Yemi Emiko who was instrumental in paving the way for Ogiame Atuwatse III to become king has openly come out to say Emami’s suspension was done in error.

The Ologbotsere Descendants, one of the largest families in Itsekiri nation, rejected the pronouncement of Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, concerning the coveted Ologbotsere traditional title. Ologbotsere Descendants, Worldwide, said that the Ologbotsere title cannot be abolished as doing so was unlawful and against extant laws governing the throne.

Early life

Chief Ayiri Emami was born in Warri North local government area of Delta state, South-South, Nigeria to the family of late Chief Akonu Emami & Mrs Felicia Emami nee Ogunfemi.

He attended Ikengbuwa primary school and Yonwuren College both in Warri before proceeding to Delta State University where he acquired a bachelor’s degree in political science.

Work and career

He was one of the youngest founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Warri, Delta State, and was the party chairman in Warri South-West local government area. He left the party and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State in April 2015,[6] becoming one of the party’s leaders in the state.

He has served on the board of directors for Nigeria Cat Construction Company, and was the Chairman of the Delta State Waterways Security Committee, set up by the state government to reduce kidnapping and armed robbery in the Niger Delta.

His philosophy of life

His philosophy of life is deeply rooted in his passion for culture. Chief Emami is a cultural enthusiast who is devoted to preserving Itsekiri heritage.

In a recent public appearance, he declared that his ‘Ologbotsere title represents a commitment to service.’ He stated, “I was called to serve the Itsekiri nation. My life is dedicated to serving the Itsekiri nation; my head and neck I have dedicated to the Itsekiri cause.”

Chief Emami has faced numerous challenges in his life, each time emerging stronger than before. His unwavering beliefs have led to animosity towards him, but he remains undeterred. He remarked, “Because I speak the truth to Itsekiri, that’s why I’m having enemies within; if you want to have enemies, speak the truth,” he said recently.

Driven by his deep passion for Itsekiri culture, he declared, “The Ologbotsere of Warri is always afraid of doing things against Itsekiri; as long as it is against the people, I will never do it.”

Philanthropy

As a philanthropist, he has helped students finance their academic studies, and aided the financing of small-scale businesses for members of his community.

Personal life

In 2009, he married Asba Jite Emami. The couple have three children.