The National Executive Council of the Okpe Union has restated its unwavering commitment to the recognition of the Okpe people as a distinct ethnic nationality. This follows a recent public declaration by the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, which the union states could create misunderstanding about Okpe origins.

In a statement signed by its leadership, the union reviewed the monarch’s comments and presented historical references supporting an independent Okpe identity. The NEC noted that its position is based on long-standing records and research emphasizing Okpe’s unique history, language, and cultural heritage.

The union expressed concern over the recent statement but also recounted the Orodje’s earlier role as an advocate for Okpe identity. It referenced instances where His Royal Majesty encouraged initiatives promoting Okpe culture and language, including participation in major conferences and approving resolutions championing Okpe self-identification. Speeches delivered by the Orodje between 2006 and 2007 were cited, in which he described Okpe as a “unique ethnic nationality” with deep historical ties to the Benin Kingdom but distinct in language, customs, and traditions.

The statement reiterated that several historical studies, including those commissioned during the Orodje’s reign, describe Okpe as an autonomous group. These studies maintain a lineage tracing back to Okpe, the progenitor whose four sons—Orhue, Orhoro, Evbreke, and Esezi—founded the present kingdom, affirming Okpe autonomy.

The union recalled documented migratory waves from the Benin Kingdom into the Delta Central Senatorial District, emphasizing that Okpe migration occurred later than earlier settlements commonly associated with Urhobo groups. This, they argue, strengthens the claim of separate origins and independent development.

Colonial administrative decisions that grouped different ethnic nationalities under broader labels were also addressed. The union argued this contributed to long-term misconceptions, noting similar historical classifications of other groups like the Isoko, who later reclaimed distinct recognition.

Affirming the uniqueness of the Okpe Nation, the statement explained that its people share a common ancestry, language, culture, and traditions, aligning with established characteristics of ethnic nationalities. It emphasized that the Okpe Kingdom possesses a defined territory, a functioning traditional institution, and a cohesive population historically tied to its founding families.

Calling for unity, the Union urged all Okpe people worldwide to remain committed to the ongoing advocacy for formal recognition. It stressed the importance of preserving cultural and historical values handed down by the founding ancestors and maintaining the role of the Okpe monarchy as a symbol of collective unity and heritage.

The statement was signed by Prof. O. Igho Natufe, President General; Barrister Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin, General Secretary; and Barrister Victor Oruno, National Publicity Secretary of the Okpe Union.

Fresh unrest has erupted in Otonyasere community, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, following alleged midnight attacks that left homes and shops in ruins. Gunmen from Abigborodo community in Warri North, allegedly loyal to Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom, reportedly unleashed sporadic gunfire and torched properties worth millions in the early hours of September 16.

Hundreds of Okpe indigenes marched through the streets on September 23 in a peaceful protest, led by National President of the Okpe Youth Council Worldwide, Comrade Moses Newcome Odiete. “Okpe will not fold its arms while our people are oppressed,” Odiete declared. He accused the Alema of Warri of sponsoring oppression against Okpe people, insisting the disputed Okpe Osobo Forest Reserve is their ancestral land.

“The boundary between Okpe and Warri North is clearly the bridge, yet they have crossed into our territory. They burnt homes, shot our people, and still allege that I led an invasion into their community. We want peace, but nobody has monopoly of violence,” Odiete warned. He added that Okpe people had exercised restraint despite repeated provocations. “Okpe is not a toothless bulldog. If pushed further, we will defend our land. But for now, we are appealing to the federal and state governments to intervene before matters escalate,” he said firmly.

Community leaders provided historical context. Dr. D.G. Arieja said records dating back to colonial times prove the forest reserve belongs to Okpe. “The forefather of Emma Uduaghan contested this land matter in court several times and lost. Why should a lawyer reopen a settled case? The Olu of Warri must call his people to order before this turns into a wider crisis,” he stressed.

Mr. Freeborn Ogodo, former Secretary General of Sapele Okpe Community, blamed political connections for fueling the conflict. “They feel emboldened because they have people in power. But our peacefulness is not stupidity. The federal government must act decisively now to prevent bloodshed,” he said.

Traditional leaders echoed fears. Okakuro Godwin Daddy declared: “This land is in Ward 7, Sapele LGA, not Warri North. Alema himself once threatened to burn my house, and today that threat has been carried out. My home and goods worth millions are gone. I am homeless, but I will not give up my land,” he vowed.

Victims painted harrowing pictures of their ordeal. A shop owner alleged: “They warned me last year to leave. When I refused, they came shooting and burnt everything — freezers, palm oil, boat engines, cash. I lost everything.” Mrs. Morine Onojaefemre recalled escaping with her children. “They came at 1:30 a.m., shooting. I ran through the back door. My new motorcycle, my savings, my home — all gone. Today, I am penniless,” she cried.

The protesters stormed the Sapele Local Government Secretariat, where they were received by Mr. Felix Abone, executive assistant to Chairman Bright Abeke. Abone assured them the matter was being addressed. “The chairman is in Asaba with the Governor on this very issue. We don’t want this to degenerate into a tribal war. Your peaceful protest is commendable, and I assure you the right thing will be done,” he said. A stakeholders’ meeting is planned to address the crisis.

Renowned peace advocate Sheriff Mulade has called on Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to urgently address growing tensions among Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw ethnic groups in Warri Federal Constituency before they escalate into a major crisis. Mulade’s appeal follows rising friction between Itsekiri and Ijaw youths after removal of banners celebrating Pere Ama-Okosuwei’s 10th coronation anniversary from Warri Metropolis.

“The government is for all. If necessary, Governor Oborevwori should come down to Warri and hold a town hall meeting with stakeholders to chart a way forward,” Mulade said, warning of potential full-blown crisis if not addressed promptly. He attributes unrest to unresolved ward delineation issues by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Mulade, Ibe-Serimowei of Ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom and UN peace ambassador, urges stakeholders’ dialogue to restore peace and unity. “Peace is better than violence, and at this moment, what we want is peace and unity for sake of development,” he stressed.

He charges security agencies to act professionally, resist manipulation. “Nigerian Police and other security agencies must not create impression they can be manipulated. They should move swiftly to nip tension in bud,” Mulade cautioned.

Mulade warns youths against undermining Delta State’s investments and infrastructure projects, identifying ward delineation dispute as root cause of ethnic friction. “There has been relative peace making infrastructural development possible. But crisis will halt government projects,” he said.

“Youths must not give room to violence or allow themselves used,” Mulade added, appealing to traditional rulers to rein in subjects. He insists INEC resolve ward delineation, acting neutrally per Supreme Court judgment. “INEC must close out Warri ward delineation, root cause of fresh ethnic violence. INEC and federal government must act neutrally,” he urged.