Olorogun Victor Okumagba Installed as Idjede of Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom
***Affirms Support for INEC’s Delineation of Warri Federal Constituency
By Wilson Macaulay
In a grand ceremony steeped in tradition and cultural pride, Olorogun Victor Okumagba, a prominent voice of the Urhobos in Warri, has been conferred with the revered Chieftaincy title of Idjede of Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom.
The installation was performed by His Royal Majesty, Ochuko Morrison Egbobonyen, the Orosuen of Okere Urhobo, at the royal palace on Ejemudaro Road, Warri, Delta State.
The event attracted a large gathering of dignitaries, traditional leaders, political stakeholders, family members, and well-wishers, all united to celebrate a man whose dedication to Urhobo progress and unity has spanned decades.
In his post-installation address, Olorogun Victor Okumagba reflected on his long journey through Chieftaincy titles and why he chose this moment to accept one from his homeland.
“My Chieftaincy journey began in 2006 when I was first honored as Oyivwinta of Effurun – Otor Kingdom in Ughelli South LGA, and later as Ewewu of Agbarha -Otor Kingdom in Ughelli North LGA in 2013. For personal reasons, I had consistently declined titles from my own kingdom—until now,” he said.
“With the emergence of our new Monarch, His Royal Majesty Ochuko Morrison Egbobonyen, I see a new dawn for our people. That is why I accepted the call to serve as Idjede. As a kingmaker and custodian of the collective will of our people, my role is to unite, represent, and uplift the Okere Urhobo Kingdom in particular and the Urhobo Nation in general.”
Olorogun Victor Okumagba one of the the political pillars of the Urhobo Nation also used the opportunity to reaffirm his unwavering support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s recent delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency, which he described as a long-overdue step toward justice and fair representation for all ethnic groups in the area.
“There is no going back on the INEC delineation. It is a clear path to equity, and I stand firmly with our people on this issue,” he emphasized.
The Idjede role, as explained by Olorogun Victor Okumagba, involves harmonizing the views of the kingdom, channeling them constructively, and working closely with the Monarch to realize the collective aspirations of the community and the Okere Urhobo Warri kingdom.
As the celebrations continued with cultural displays and traditional rites, many hailed the conferment as a strategic move that signals unity, peace, and renewed leadership within the Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom.
Reactions from Notable Chiefs
The conferment of the Idjede title was met with glowing commendations from respected leaders of the kingdom:
Rt. Brigadier Gold Eburu, the Otota of Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom, remarked:
“ Olorogun Victor Okumagba is a visionary and a worthy son of the soil. His wisdom, network, and leadership experience will enrich the Council of Kingmakers. The Idjede title fits him perfectly.”
” With this historic conferment, the Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom have stepped forward with renewed energy, unity, and deepened the kingdom,s commitment to progress—guided by the voices of wisdom like that of the newly installed Idjede, Olorogun Victor Okumagba.”
Chief John Eravon, the Uloho of Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom, said:
“Today marks a turning point. With Olorogun Victor Okumagba as the Idjede of Okere Urhobo Warri kingdom,we have added strength to the core of our traditional leadership. He brings deep insight and a strong voice that represents the will of our people.”
Chief Femi Okumagba, the Owena of Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom, and a close family member, in his goodwill message said:
“This is a proud moment for our family and the kingdom. The Idjede is not just a ceremonial title—it is a call to duty. And I am confident that Olorogun Victor Okumagba will wear it with integrity, honor, and service.”
Chief Julius Ejiro Eyenor, the Atugbenu Fiame of Okere Urhobo Warri Kingdom, who also spoke ,noted:
“The role of Idjede is about wisdom and the ability to unify. Olorogun Victor has always shown these qualities. His instalment is an unquantifiable blessing to the Okere Urhobo Warri kingdom.”
