By Ovasa Ogaga,
Former President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) and National President of the Traditional Chiefs of Urhoboland Association (TCULA), Chief Joe Omene, has bluntly rejected a directive by Urhobo monarchs banning parallel chief associations, insisting that TCULA remains lawful, legitimate, and unstoppable.
Reacting to the communiqué issued by the monarchs, Omene was unequivocal: “We will still exist. Nobody can dissolve us.” He described the move as predictable, accusing the royal council of consistently opposing initiatives that promote unity and dignity in Urhoboland. “They have always opposed what brings honour and healthy relationships. Frankly, they have nothing else to do,” he said.
Questioning the rationale behind the ban, Omene asked why chiefs were being singled out while other groups operate freely. “In Urhoboland, we have 24 kingdoms and 24 kings. They all have their association. There is also an Association of President Generals, and nobody banned that. Why then target the chiefs?” he queried.
Drawing from history, Omene recalled the resistance that greeted the formation of the UPU. “When Mukoro Mowoe established UPU, the kings fought against it. Yet it survived almost a century. Ironically, the same UPU they tried to kill is now the one they want to weaken. They have nearly destroyed it already,” he said.
He further accused the monarchs of seeking absolute control, citing their walkout during the last UPU congress over seating arrangements. “If they do not dictate who becomes President General, nobody is allowed to contest honourably. That is their style,” Omene stated.
Insisting that TCULA is beyond royal fiat, Omene stressed its legal standing. “Our association is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. Government is fully aware of its existence. They do not even have the right to de-robe any chief. Only the state government has that power,” he said, warning that TCULA would challenge any unlawful action.
Beyond the immediate dispute, Omene criticised the monarchs for what he described as silence during critical moments, including the Okuama detentions and killings in Warri. While he acknowledged the Owhorode of Olomu as “learned and well-versed,” he dismissed most others as ill-informed.
Addressing TCULA members, Omene struck a defiant tone: “We are steady. We are ready. If kings can have their association, and President Generals can have theirs, why can’t chiefs? This is about rights, law, and dignity.”
