The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), the apex socio-cultural body of the Urhobo nation, stormed Ovwor-Olomu in Delta State to honour the late monarch of Olomu Kingdom, HRM M. O. P. Ovbagbedia, who passed on at the age of 91.
Led by its President-General, Chief Ese Gam, the UPU paid glowing tribute to the late Ohworode of Olomu, describing him as “a father to all Urhobo people” and “a symbol of peace, unity and wisdom.”
“The Ohworode was not only the spiritual and traditional head of Olomu but a towering figure across all of Urhoboland,” Chief Gam said.
“His leadership and values provided a moral compass for the entire Urhobo nation. His passing marks the end of an era — but his legacy lives on.”
The event, which was part of the monarch’s final rites of passage, drew traditional leaders, cultural ambassadors, and community chiefs from across Urhoboland.
Traditional rites were observed, while dancers and drummers provided a rich backdrop of Urhobo cultural pride.
In a show of solidarity, the Forum of Urhobo Kingdom Presidents-General also joined the ceremony, paying their respects and participating in sacred passage rites.
The Otota of Olomu Kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN), also addressed the gathering, praising the UPU for standing by the people of Olomu in their moment of grief.
“It is with deep humility that I pay homage to a monarch whose reign laid the foundation for generations. We thank the UPU for honoring his memory and supporting us during this period,” he said.
Dignitaries at the event included Olorogun Moses Taiga, the Adjerese of Olomu Kingdom, alongside other prominent sons and daughters of the land.
