Urhobo and Ijaw royals, bridge gap, appeal for urgent action by state government

In response to heightened tensions between the Aladja and Ogbe-ijoh Communities in Delta’s Udu and Warri South West Council Areas, the leaders of the Urhobo and Ijaw tribes convened a closed-door meeting. The gathering took place at the palace of HRM Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe, who chairs the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.

This meeting, initiated by HRM Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom and Chairman of the Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council, saw representatives in attendance. HRM Solomon Okukeren III, the Ovie of Arhavwarien Kingdom, represented HRM Abe I.

Following discussions, HRM Elder (Capt.) Joseph Timiyan PhD, Ebenanaowwi of Ogulagha Kingdom, Chair of the Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, and HRM Solomon Okukeren III signed a five-point communique. This document was witnessed by HRM Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe.

The communique issued emphasized the resolution of the long-standing Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh conflict, stressing that the Urhobo and Ijaw ethnic groups share no personal animosity and are not engaged in warfare against each other.

Key points from the communique include:

A call for the Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU) to address an allegedly provocative publication suggesting conflict between the Urhobo and Ijaw communities.
An appeal to Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborewori to take swift action towards achieving lasting peace and enhanced security in the affected areas.
Encouragement for the leadership of both communities to prioritize peace and work collaboratively to promote unity and harmony among their ethnic groups and within the state.
Disregard for an alleged seven-day ultimatum from an unidentified group, deemed fake and intended to create mischief.
Notable attendees included HRM Barr Shedrack Erebulu, Pere of Kabowei, HRM Dr. Wilson Ojakovo, Ovie of Ughelli, HRM Noble Eshemitan, Ovie of Oghara, HRM Oghenevwogaga Ebelle, Ovie of Agbarha Otor, HRM Couple Oromoni, Pere of Ogbe-ijoh, HRM Bosu Dio, Ebenanaowwi of Iduwini, HRM Johnbull Polokowei, Pere of Ogbolobiri Mein, HRM Sunday Odogu Okpurhe, Uduaka I, Ovie of Mosogar, and other dignitaries.

Edited By Damilola Adeleke