By Ovasa Ogaga,
The Senator Representing Delta Central Senatoral District, Senator Ede Dafinone has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Osoukpa I, the Okpara-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, on the official presentation of the Staff of Office by the Delta State Government, describing the ceremony as a historic milestone for the Urhobo traditional institution.
The ceremony took place on Sunday, August 3, 2025, in Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Area, with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori represented by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme.
In a congratulatory message issued on Monday, Dafinone, described the event as “a new chapter in the enduring legacy of Orogun’s revered traditional institution,” and expressed optimism for peace, unity, and progress under the leadership of the newly confirmed monarch.
Highlighting the cultural significance of the occasion, the Senator noted that Orogun Kingdom remains the only Urhobo kingdom that practices gerontocracy—a unique tradition where the oldest man from the Umusu quarter ascends the throne as Okpara-Uku.
The statement reads:
"I, Senator Ede Dafinone, on behalf of the people of Delta Central Senatorial District, heartily congratulate His Royal Majesty, Osoukpa I, the Okpara-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, on the momentous occasion of the official presentation of the Staff of Office by the Executive Governor of Delta State, ably represented by His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, on Sunday in Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Area. This historic event marks a new chapter in the enduring legacy of Orogun's revered traditional institution.
"The Orogun Kingdom holds a unique and sacred place in Urhobo culture as the only kingdom that continues to uphold gerontocracy—a rare and noble tradition where the most elderly man from the Umusu quarter ascends the throne as the Okpara-Uku. This ancient system is a profound symbol of wisdom, longevity, and communal respect, and it continues to reflect the values of justice, humility, and ancestral reverence that define the Urhobo heritage.
"As your reign begins with the formal recognition of the Delta State Government, I pray for continued peace, unity, and progress in Orogun Kingdom. May your leadership be marked by divine health, wise counsel, and the strength to uphold the customs and aspirations of your people. Congratulations once again, Your Majesty."
