• “…Throughout all my life and with all my heart, I shall strive to be worthy of your trust”- Osuokpa 1
• “Today, our Okpara-Uku is on the throne, and you’ve seen him in person—no proxy”- Efe-Nogo
• “Today, for the first time, we have an Okpara-Uku who is a university graduate; this is a significant achievement and progress.”- Ndakara
• “May your long reign herald peace, unity, progress, and prosperity across the kingdom.”- Dr. Charles Omo-Agege (Esq.)

By Foster Akpore

The ancient Orogun Kingdom in Ughelli North L.G.A., Delta State, witnessed a historic moment with the coronation of the 104-year-old HRM Joseph Okorocha Emoghene, Osuokpa I, as the new Okpara-Uku (king) on August 21st and 22nd, 2024. This coronation marked a significant milestone, as HRM Emoghene became the first university graduate to ascend the throne, succeeding HRM Omoefe Ozenikpe I, who also hailed from Obodeti, making it the first time in the kingdom’s history that two successive monarchs are from the same community.

The coronation ceremony, which began with traditional rites on the evening of August 21st, was followed by a grand celebration the next day. Dignitaries, traditional rulers, chiefs, government officials, and a large gathering of Orogun sons and daughters came together to honor the new king. The atmosphere was filled with cultural displays, entertainment, and a palpable sense of unity and progress for the kingdom.

In his inaugural address, read without glasses, HRM Emoghene expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by the people of Orogun. He pledged his unwavering commitment to the development of the kingdom, stating, “Throughout all my life and with all my heart, I shall strive to be worthy of your trust. In this resolve, I have the Palace Council, my chiefs, and all the people of Orogun Kingdom to support me in this noble assignment.”

HRM Emoghene outlined his vision for Orogun, emphasizing the importance of economic development, law and order, and inclusive governance. He announced his intention to attract federal establishments and banking institutions to the kingdom, ensuring that business activities thrive under a peaceful and prosperous environment. “My door is open to everyone for any positive ideas that will bring about progress and the upliftment of Orogun Kingdom,” he concluded, invoking blessings upon Nigeria, Delta State, Ughelli North, and Orogun Kingdom.

Said in in own words, by the Okpara-Uku: “OROGUN WADO. I have in sincerity, pledged myself to the service of Orogun Kingdom, as so many of you have pledged to mine. Throughout all my life and with all my heart, I shall strive to be worthy of your trust. In this resolve, I have the palace council, my chiefs and all the people of Orogun Kingdom to support the in this noble assignment. Having said the above, I want to ensure that I will see to the overall development of Orogun Kingdom. For the moment God helping us, we will like to see that banks have their branch offices in Orogun Kingdom as a federal establishment is now in Orogun. Also, I want to see that all interest in Orogun Kingdom including the men, women, youth and foreigners residing in Orogun carries out their businesses attractively in Orogun and abide by the law governing the kingdom for peace and prosperity. In conclusion, my door is open to everyone for any positive ideas that will bring about progress and the upliftment of Orogun Kingdom. God bless Nigeria, God bless Delta state, God bless Ughelli North, God bless Orogun Kingdom in Jesus Name.”

The new Okpara-Uku’s journey to the throne is as inspiring as it is historic. Born in 1920 into the Opia Family of Obodeti in Umusu Sub-clan, Orogun. His mother was a native of Amai in Ndokwa. Born in 1920, he attended C.M.S. School in Orogun town and L.A. School in Amai. In 1941, he left L.A. School and joined St. Peter’s Catholic School in Ode-Irele, Ikale land, now part of Ondo State. He also attended St. John’s Catholic School in Okitipupa, Ikale land, but eventually dropped out due to financial constraints.

HRM Emoghene faced numerous challenges in his early years, including financial constraints that interrupted his education. However, his determination and perseverance led him back to school, where he ultimately graduated with a National Certificate Examination (N.C.E.) and later attended the University of Ibadan, earning a degree in English Language. His career in education and leadership saw him serving in various capacities, including as a teacher and later as the Baale of his residential area in Eruwa, Oyo State.

The significance of having a graduate on the throne was not lost on the attendees. Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo (JP), the Onotu-Uku (Traditional Prime Minister) of Orogun Kingdom, highlighted this achievement during his speech, noting the smooth and harmonious transition of power. He praised the contributions of various individuals and the Orogun Council of Chiefs, acknowledging their role in ensuring the success of the coronation. “Our Okpara-Uku is a graduate, capable of reading and writing fluently. Let’s give him a round of applause,” Chief Efe-Nogo remarked, celebrating the progress represented by HRM Emoghene’s ascension.

“It’s a joyful occasion today, as we not only witnessed the installation of our new Okpara-Uku yesterday but are also witnessing his swearing-in ceremony, the first of its kind by the Traditional Council of Chiefs in such harmonious unity. We also experienced a smooth transition yesterday. For those who spent the night with us, I want to say thank you, and may God bless you. Today, our Okpara-Uku is on the throne, and you’ve seen him in person—no proxy. Our Okpara-Uku is a graduate who is capable of reading and writing fluently. Let’s give him a round of applause.

“For those who worked tirelessly to make this occasion a success, I extend my heartfelt thanks. A special shout-out to the following individuals: Chief (Sir) Solomon Awero, our Acting President General, and Chief Barr. Benson Ndakara, please applaud him. The Council of Chiefs deserves special recognition as well. I am starting with the Ukomo, Chief Thomson Onovughe, the Ugo-Uku (Spokesman) of Orogun Kingdom, Chief John Ominigbo, and the Secretary, Chief Benson Ibeh. Let’s also acknowledge Chief Dr. Achugbue, who is not left out. Some people are part of history, even in their absence—their presence is felt. Let’s give Chief A.K. Osawota a round of applause as well. I thank and appreciate all of you for coming.”

Chief (Barr.) Benson Ndakara, the Acting President General of Orogun, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the unique qualities of Obodeti community, which has now produced two successive Okpara-Ukus. He humorously recounted his conversation with Chief (Sir) Chief Solomon Awero, the President General of Obodeti about the secret to the community’s success, attributing it to their peaceful nature and avoidance of traditional conflicts. Chief Ndakara also acknowledged the challenges and minor altercations that are part of any kingdom but reassured the gathering that unity and support for the new king would prevail. “We have a brand new king, and we will work tirelessly to support him,” he declared, urging continued celebration and camaraderie.

In his words, “I’ve been here since yesterday evening and left around 6:00 AM. Now, this afternoon, we’re gathered here again. We heard from the President General of Obodeti. Yesterday, I asked him a question: How is it that Obodeti people age so well and have consistently produced the Okpara-Uku of Orogun? I asked him to research and share the secret. He responded that no research was needed and described a typical Obodeti man’s behavior—they avoid traditional conflicts and steer clear of anything that might bring conflict with the ‘Ivwri’ and traditional practices. I agree with him. Today, for the first time, as the PG of Obodeti said, we have an Okpara-Uku who is a university graduate. This is a significant achievement and progress. I saw the Okpara-Uku reading, just as the PG mentioned, and he was reading without glasses. We, the younger ones, often need glasses, but Okpara-Uku reads without them. Let’s give him a round of applause.

“We also recognize Chief (Barr.) A.K. Osawota, the Ogba of Orogun Kingdom and the Lolo of Orogun Kingdom. Behind every successful man is a Lolo, and we honor Chief Mrs. Ese Osawota, who has stood by him through thick and thin. We greet her in the mighty name of Jesus. Ladies and gentlemen, Orogun sons and daughters, we are happy to be here and grateful for your contributions. As the saying goes, “The tongue and the teeth may fight, but the saliva will resolve the problem.” We have no issues here. I was informed of some minor altercations, but I said those are not problems—they’re normal occurrences in a kingdom. On the 29th of this month, the Okpara of Imodje will be installed, and we look forward to when Imodje will present their chosen person to the Okpara-Uku of Orogun Kingdom in the presence of the Okpara-Uku-in-Council for inauguration as the PG of Orogun Kingdom. We have no problems at all. Anyone wishing us harm will find that we rise above it. I thank you all for being part of today’s success. We have a brand new king, and we will work tirelessly to support him. On that note, I thank all of you. Let’s continue to eat and celebrate. The Okpara-Uku has the capacity to provide for us. When we leave here, if you’re not filled, come to Aragba, and we’ll take care of you. Ishagware!”

In a related development, Dr Charles Omo-Agege (Esq.), on behalf of the family of Late Chief Agege Omonedo, the OKOGBA of Orogun Kingdom, also felicitated with HRM Joseph Okorocha Emoghene on his installation as the Okpara-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, wishing him a long reign, heralded by peace, unity, progress and prosperity across the kingdom.

The coronation of HRM Joseph Okorocha Emoghene as the Okpara-Uku of Orogun Kingdom is not just a continuation of tradition but a celebration of progress and hope for the future. His education, leadership experience, and commitment to the well-being of his people have set a new standard for the throne, promising a reign of peace, prosperity, and unity for the Orogun Kingdom. As the kingdom embarks on this new chapter, the legacy of HRM Emoghene’s leadership is poised to leave an indelible mark on the history of Orogun.

The celebration included tributes from the Orogun Traditional Council of Chiefs, musical performances, cultural displays, and a flood of congratulatory messages from Orogun sons and daughters. Among those who sent their felicitations through Oghwoghwa Reporters were the late Uku, Chief Agege Omonedo Dynasty,Hon. Matthew Onijighofia Omonade, Chief and Chief (Mrs.) Andy Osawota, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe and Chief (Dr.) Mrs. Omodoro Ononibe Adeseye Ogunlewe, Dr. and Dr. (Mrs.) Otive Igbuzor, Chief Emmanuel Ogobene, CSP Gladys Imegu, Chief Young Akpude, Chief Thompson Opone, Comrade Gabriel Akpude, Chief Magistrate Enakpodia, P.G. of the Umusu Ruling House, Sir Felix Osawota, P.G. of the Unukpo Sub-clan, Rev. Okwoma Augustine, P.G of Eze-Efe Royal Descendants of Igbuku-Orogun, Pastor Regina Omo-Agege, Adjerese O.M. Anuku, Chief John Agabi, Mrs. Elohor Daisy Okpamwa, Chief O.J. Orogun (JP), Chief Paul A. Otu (FCA) and the Paul Otu Foundation, Chief (Sir) Solomon Awero, Obodeti P.G., Hon. Patience Edirin Awero (JP), Chief Lawrence Akpobi, Dr. Bennis Agbonifoh, Chief Denis Idoghor, Chief Kigho L. Ebioke, Olorogun Dr. Omoriame and Chief Mrs. Oyibo Akpede, Chief Dr. Edwin Achugbue, Olorogun Engr. Theodore Efemuai, Pst Kanabar Ovie Duke & Matron (Mrs) Stella Edirin Kanabar, Comrade Stephen Okotie, Hon. Eliot Odiushovwi, Evangelist Felix Ogbajini, Orogun Children Home and Abroad, led by Mr. Lucky Idama, Orogun Genetics Worldwide, and many others.