Chief Ayiri Emami Set to Become the Olu of Ugborodo Kingdom

By Diafa Doubra,

In what could mark a historic turning point for the Itsekiri nation, renowned business mogul and community leader, Chief Ayiri Emami, is reportedly set to be installed as the Olu of Ugborodo Kingdom, an emerging Itsekiri kingdom located in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.

According to credible sources within the Delta State political and traditional circles, a two-thirds majority of the Delta State House of Assembly is said to be in favor of recognizing Ugborodo as a full-fledged kingdom within the Itsekiri ethnic nationality. This move, if formalized, would grant Ugborodo a unique traditional identity, separate yet aligned with the broader Itsekiri cultural framework.

It was further gathered that the Ugborodo Alaraja and Ologbosere families, two of the most influential royal lineages in the community, have nominated Chief Ayiri Emami as the Olu-designate. Upon completion of the traditional and governmental processes, the Delta State Government is expected to present him with the Staff of Office, officially confirming his position as the Olu of Ugborodo Kingdom.

The development has sparked excitement across Ugborodo and neighboring Itsekiri communities, with many describing it as a long-overdue recognition of Ugborodo’s historical and economic significance. The oil-rich community hosts major multinational companies, including Chevron Nigeria Limited, yet locals have often lamented a lack of visible development despite decades of resource extraction.

Community members and observers believe that granting Ugborodo full traditional autonomy will foster unity, accountability, and sustainable development, particularly under the leadership of Ayiri Emami, who has been a vocal advocate for equity and empowerment within the Itsekiri nation.

A resident of the community, reacting to the news, said:
“Ugborodo deserves this. For years, we’ve watched outsiders and middlemen benefit from our resources while our people remain sidelined. This new kingdom gives us hope that things will finally change.”

The sentiment resonates beyond the Itsekiri nation, as several Urhobo groups have reportedly expressed solidarity and support for Ayiri Emami’s anticipated coronation, describing it as a positive step towards regional unity and resource control at the community level.

If confirmed, Chief Ayiri Emami’s emergence as the Olu of Ugborodo Kingdom would not only redefine traditional leadership structures within the Itsekiri nation but also signal a new era of grassroots empowerment and collective progress.

OGIAME SUO!
Long Live the Incoming Olu of Ugborodo Kingdom!