By Ovasa Ogaga,
Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the revered monarch of Olomu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, JP, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, the Ohworode of Olomu.
In a heartfelt condolence message issued on Sunday, Senator Dafinone extended his sympathies to the Royal Family, the Olomu Council of Chiefs, and the entire Urhobo Nation, describing the monarch as a beacon of wisdom, peace, and cultural pride.
Recall that the monarch’s passing was formally announced by the Otota (traditional prime minister) of Olomu Kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN, on Saturday at the royal palace in Ovwor-Olomu.
Highlighting the monarch’s brief but impactful reign, the Senator noted that HRM Uhurhie-Osadjere II brought moral clarity, dignity, and a deep sense of duty to his role. He also recalled the monarch’s legacy as a retired Deputy Commissioner of Police and one of the longest-serving Otatas (spokesmen) of Olomu Kingdom, whose voice served as a steady guide in challenging times.
Senator Dafinone's statement reads: "I, Senator Ede Dafinone, Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family of Olomu Kingdom, the Council of Chiefs, Olomu people and the entire Urhobo Nation on the passing of our highly revered monarch, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, JP, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, the Ohworode of Olomu.
"The official announcement of his transition by the Otota of the kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN, at the royal palace in Ovwor-Olomu, brings a deep sense of loss to all of us. The Ohworode was not only a custodian of culture and tradition but also a symbol of wisdom, unity, and peace throughout his reign.
"In his short reign, HRM Uhurhie-Osadjere II embodied dignity, moral clarity, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of his people. As one of the longest-serving Otata of Olomu before ascending the throne, his wise counsel and fatherly guidance served as a compass in moments of uncertainty, and his legacy of selfless service as a retired Deputy Commissioner of Police will remain evergreen in our hearts.
"In this moment of grief, I urge the people of Olomu Kingdom and the broader Urhobo Nation to take solace in the impactful life His Royal Majesty lived. May we honour his memory by upholding the values he stood for — unity, integrity, and peaceful coexistence.
"On behalf of my family, and the people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I pray that Almighty God grants the Ohworode eternal rest and comforts the Royal Family, the Olomu Traditional Council, and all who mourn this monumental loss."
