08/03/2026
PUBLIC STATEMENT
A Call for Peace, Truth and Responsible Conduct in Evwreni Kingdom
As a concerned indigene of Unenurhie community in Evwreni Kingdom, I feel compelled to address recent developments and public discourse surrounding the traditional leadership structure of our beloved kingdom.
This is a moment that demands caution from all of us. When personal ambition overshadows patriotism and individual interests breed disunity, the consequences extend far beyond any single person. Such actions divert our people's attention from urgent community challenges and gradually entrench the harmful notion that ego and status matter more than the pressing realities facing our kingdom.
To those who have taken sides and continue to amplify these divisions, it is time to pause and reflect. Every reaction, insult, and needless provocation only stokes a fire that brings no warmth but distraction and bitterness.
While debates rage over issues of seniority and traditional stools in the kingdom, our communities continue to grapple with deeper problems of division, lingering hostility, and widening social inequalities, all fueled by this misplaced contention.
At this critical stage of our kingdom's development, what should truly command our collective attention and passion is how we can become more united; sharing common visions for development, empowerment, and progress.
Wealth and influence must be viewed as a sacred responsibility, not as weapons to sow perpetual unrest in our own community. I make this appeal with the deepest sense of duty and responsibility.
It is regrettable that in recent weeks, a small group of individuals has chosen to deepen division in the kingdom. Their actions, seemingly driven by desperation and a refusal to accept established realities, have led to attempts to introduce unfamiliar traditional claims into Evwreni Kingdom. From the outset, it was evident that this path could only breed confusion and unnecessary tension. It is never a solution to our problems as a people.
I observed that for some time now, there has been intense public discussion about the traditional leadership hierarchy of Evwreni Kingdom, particularly the rightful custodian of the revered Odion’Rode stool. Certain unfounded claims have been advanced, especially by some members of the Okpawha community. It has therefore become necessary to set the record straight with the factual and time-honoured traditional position, for the benefit of the wider public.
Traditional and Legal Recognition of the Ovie
Under long-established traditional practice and recognised customary law, the Ovie of Evwreni Kingdom remains the officially gazetted and recognised clan head by the Delta State Government. His Royal Majesty exercises the highest traditional authority over all communities in the kingdom, including Unenurhie, a distinct and integral town within Evwreni.
Historical Role of the Odion’Rode
Historically, since the creation of the Ovie stool, the position of Odion’Rode, traditionally regarded as next in hierarchy to the Ovie has been associated with the Unenurhie community. This reflects the enduring customary arrangements that have defined the traditional structure of Evwreni Kingdom for generations.
Meeting and Official Recognition
The people of Evwreni kingdom have consistently upheld this hierarchical order in harmony with past Odion’Rode holders.
The current Odion’Rode of the Kingdom, High Chief James Amuke, succeeded the late Odion’Rode, His Highness Chief Aganufa, in 2024.
In January 2025, the Unenurhie community formally presented High Chief James Amuke to His Royal Majesty Oghenekevwe Kumane II (Eruvwedede III) for recognition as Odion’Rode of Evwreni Kingdom.
During that historic presentation, the Ovie warmly received Chief James Amuke and unequivocally affirmed his role as Odion’Rode. The monarch reiterated that, according to the traditional hierarchy of the kingdom, the Odion’Rode is the next in authority after the Ovie and is produced from the Unenurhie community. The occasion was sealed with prayers and traditional rites at the palace, symbolising unity and the reaffirmation of our cherished customs.
Clarifying the Okpawha Position
While the Okpawha community, which was ordinarily a quarter in Evwreni has persisted with its subjective historical claims to the Odion’Rode title, it is important to state clearly that these claims are not recognised under the prevailing legal and traditional framework. Whatever stool Okpahwa is laying claim to is not the gazetted clan head of the kingdom, and such assertions have not received the endorsement of the recognised traditional institution headed by the Ovie.
Peace and Unity Above All
Despite these disagreements, High Chief James Amuke and the good people of Unenurhie have consistently championed reconciliation, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all communities in Evwreni Kingdom. Our collective focus must now shift to unity, development, and the welfare of our people, rather than prolonged and unproductive disputes. Therefore those fanning the embers of discord must have a rethink and allow reason to prevail
Conclusion
His Highness High Chief James Amuke stands as the duly recognised Odion’Rode of Evwreni Kingdom, having been formally affirmed by the Ovie through established traditional processes during the presentation meeting with the Unenurhie community.
This clarification is issued not to inflame tensions, but to present the facts, preserve our cherished traditional order, and foster peace, understanding, and lasting unity within Evwreni Kingdom.
-James Okparikpu
Concerned Indigene of Unenurhie Community
Evwreni Kingdom, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.
March 2026
