The Udu Kingdom in Delta State is mourning the loss of its revered monarch, His Royal Majesty Barrister Emmanuel Bethel Otete Delekpe, Owhorhu I, who passed away at 86 after a 31-year reign.
- Ovie of Udu Kingdom, Owhorhu I, passed on February 24, 2025, at age 86.
- His reign, which began in 1994, was marked by enduring peace and a revival of cultural heritage that strengthened the identity of the Udu people.
- A 9-day mourning period has been declared, with strict observance across the kingdom.
Udu Kingdom Mourns the Loss of Monarch Who Championed Peace and Progress
The Udu Kingdom, located in the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, has officially confirmed the death of its long-reigning monarch, His Royal Majesty Barrister Emmanuel Bethel Otete Delekpe, Owhorhu I, the Ovie of Udu Kingdom.
The revered king, who ascended the throne on May 20, 1994, passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 86, after serving his people with dignity and wisdom for 31 years.
The announcement was made during a solemn press conference on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Udu Kingdom Palace in Otor-Udu. The statement was delivered by the Otota and Regent of Udu Kingdom, High Chief (Sir) Samuelson Esikomunu Odibo, speaking on behalf of the Udu Council of Chiefs.
A Monarch Remembered for Peace and Development
Throughout his reign, Owhorhu I was celebrated for his unifying leadership and his significant contributions to the development of the Udu region.
Notably, he championed lasting peace and fostered a deep sense of cultural pride, preserving the traditions and identity of the Udu people for future generations.
Describing the late king as a pillar of peace and unity, the Udu Council of Chiefs expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s passing and urged citizens to uphold his values.
Udu Declares 9 Days of Mourning
As a mark of respect, the Udu Kingdom has declared a nine-day mourning period, which begins on Thursday, April 17 and ends on Friday, April 25, 2025.
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During this period:
- All social events, such as weddings and parties involving loud music, are strictly prohibited.
- All markets and shops across Udu Kingdom will be completely shut down on Thursday, April 24, and Friday, April 25, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., marking the final two days of the mourning period.
These measures aim to honour the monarch’s legacy and allow the kingdom to grieve collectively and respectfully.
Final Rites to Be Announced
The Council of Chiefs has stated that further details about the final rites of passage will be shared in due course. Residents and well-wishers are encouraged to adhere to the mourning protocols and support the kingdom during this solemn time.
A PRESS STATEMENT BY THE OTOTA OF UDU KINGDOM ON BEHALF OF THE UDU COUNCIL OF CHIEFS TO ANNOUNCE THE JOURNEY OF HIS ROYAL MAJESTY BARRISTER EMMANUEL BETHEL OTETE DELEKPE, OWHORU 1, OVIE OF UDU KINGDOM TO THE GREAT BEYOND.
Udu Adoo!
Udu Adoo!!
Udu Adoo!!!
Dear Udu Indigenes home and Abroad,
Fellow Nigerian citizens
Residents of Udu Kingdom
Gentlemen of the press,
It is with hearts filled with profound sadness, but with gratitude to God for a glorious reign that we are gathered here today to announce the journey of our revered Monarch, His Royal Majesty Barrister Emmanuel Bethel Otete Delekpe, to be with the ancestors.
His Royal Majesty Barrister E. B. O. Delekpe, Owhorhu 1 was our very first King. He was crowned on May 20th, 1994, and reigned over the kingdom for 31 years. He was a symbol of our cultural heritage whose reign brought development, peace, and unity to Udu. It was during his remarkable reign that Udu as a Local Government was created. His Royal Majesty joined the ancestors on the 24th of February 2025 after 86 years of merritorious sourjon on earth.
The Council of Chiefs and the Royal Family are currently making arrangements for the final rites of passage of the king, which will be announced in due course.
As a mark of honour for the departed king and as custom demands, there is hereby declared throughout the length and breadth of the kingdom a 9-day mourning period effective Thursday, 17th April, through Friday, the 25th of April, 2025. During this period, there shall be no social gatherings, burials, marriages, or any celebrations that require the playing of loud music. There will be a complete closure of markets and shops throughout Udu on Saturday 19th and Friday, the 24th of April, during the mourning period between the hours of 6am to 6pm. We urge all indigenes and those who dwell with us to respect our sensibilities and adhere strictly to these activities and others that may be announced by joining us in paying our respects to our departed King.
May we all rise now to observe a minute of silence in honour of the King.
We will continue to provide the public with regular updates on the final rites of passage and other related activities. We regret any inconveniences that may arise but will appreciate your understanding, cooperation, and support during this difficult time.
High Chief (Sir) Samuelson Esikomunu Odibo
Otota and Regent of Udu Kingdom
Wednesday 16th May 2025
The legacy of Owhorhu I will forever remain in the hearts of the people of Udu.
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