On Sunday, November 22, 2015, a significant chapter in the history of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI) was written with the foundation of Commandery 897, Ekete. The occasion coincided with the Feast of Christ the King, a day traditionally marked by Knights donning their highest uniforms and performing sword manoeuvre drills in celebration.
At the end of the procession and Mass, the foundation brothers gathered at the residence of Sir Paul Evwierhoma for light refreshment. It was during this gathering that the vision for regular monthly meetings was conceived. They agreed to convene on the first Sunday of every month, beginning in December 2015. Sir Ehiwe was appointed coordinator, Bro Ovien as secretary, and Sir Evwierhoma graciously hosted the first six months of meetings at his residence. Thereafter, other brothers took turns hosting, further deepening fellowship and unity.
As these meetings progressed, the idea of establishing a Commandery gained momentum. Dedicated Catholic parishioners from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Ekete and St. Mary’s, Ovwian were carefully identified and invited to strengthen the cause. Their commitment reinforced the foundation group’s resolve.
The Commandery was weaned by St. Michael Commandery 728, DSC. On the day of inauguration, eight (8) brothers were initiated into the new Commandery at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Ekete, by the then Grand President of Benin Grand Commandery, Brig. Gen. Sylvester Egbase (of blessed memory), flanked by his immediate past Grand President, Brig. Gen. Patrick Origbe (also late). Present at the ceremony were Fr. Bartholomew Mogbolu, the Worthy President of St. Michael Commandery 728, Sir Felix Ikogwe, and several grand executive officers.
In addition to the initiates, six (6) brothers transferred from St. Michael Commandery 728, two (2) from Commandery 559 Sapele, one (1) from Commandery 489 Warri, and one (1) from Commandery 729 joined to strengthen the foundation.
The charter Worthy President was Sir Paul Evwierhoma, while the charter Spiritual Adviser was Very Rev. Fr. Magnus Alim. The Commandery was chartered with nine brothers, inaugurated as St. Albert’s Squad. Through Sir Evwierhoma’s consistent advocacy with the Benin Grand President, the creation of St. Peter Commandery became a reality. In 2017, the Commandery was officially approved by SSP Nigeria and, in the same year, gazetted at the KSJI U.S. Convention.
The Commandery’s first regular meetings and musters took place at Ekete Primary School, secured with the school management and community leaders on the condition that the Knights would assist with repairing broken windows, ceilings, and some furniture.
Later, the venue was shifted to Kingsville Nursery and Primary School. However, during the KSJI crises in the diocese, which lasted about two years, regular activities were disrupted. During this period, the then Grand President, Brig. Gen. Paulinus Evwierhoma, generously provided a venue at Giro Plaza for the Commandery’s activities.
Normalcy returned following the Episcopal Ordination of the Bishop of Warri Diocese, Rt. Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, who intervened decisively to resolve the crises. The Bishop subsequently appointed Rev. Fr. Jude Onyeka Nwabuokei, parish priest of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Ekete, as the Commandery’s new and current Spiritual Adviser. In his wisdom, Fr. Nwabuokei offered the church as the permanent venue for the Commandery’s meetings, musters, and other activities.
While the Commandery grew steadily, it also faced setbacks. Of the eight brothers initiated at inauguration, three strayed during the crisis years and are yet to return. Nevertheless, resilience and dedication propelled the Commandery forward, with membership now at twenty-six (26) on the nominal roll and one aspirant preparing for initiation at the forthcoming December JGBOT.
Over the years, Commandery 897 Ekete has produced prominent Knights who have risen to high offices, including:
The establishment and growth of Commandery 897 Ekete stand as a testament to the unity, resilience, and vision of its foundation members. From humble beginnings at a parish gathering in 2015 to official recognition in 2017 and steady expansion thereafter, the Commandery’s journey reflects the enduring spirit of the Knights of St. John International. It is a legacy cherished by its members and one that continues to inspire future generations.
